In this case there is not much aggression, but he is throwing up defenses while trying to avoid conflict. He is afraid of direct confrontation so goes about “defying” authority in this passive manner. And passive aggressive people are fully capable of anger outbursts if they are pushed far enough. They just prefer not to go there. He may be trying to control himself too, that would make sense, but I don’t think he is trying to “stick” it to HP. I see nothing so vindictive. I had not thought about his control from a religious standpoint. I can see that now with his background. But I do believe he is trying to stand his ground in his own way. I do not think it i so much to actually control her as an attempt to control confrontation. I do think he doesn’t want to hurt her feelings too.
