I hope that helps and works for you lovethesun.
At the core, we have no control nor should on other people and their actions. In my mind, If they act like a jerk it is a reflection of them. I don't have to absorb it or react to it. That is my choice. I agree that people can act differently if they are under stress. I still don't feel it gives them the right to treat others badly. But if and when they do, I too choose to just move out of the way, not absorb or react, and choose to let them be who they are.
I hope your experiment bears fruitful peace for you.