People lash out when they are afraid of losing something they perceive to own. This doesn’t absolve them from lashing out, but it is an indicator that a deep fear is being triggered, often a fear of losing control or power.
Sometimes, changing systems, particularly deeply embedded belief systems (the base of all other systems) will evoke strong emotions, and even lash outs. It’s how we know we’re bumping up against an embedded system.
Lash outs are data about a situation. They are also a reminder to keep taking courageous steps. We need belief systems to change.