I don't sulk and mope, I step back which allows us both time to reflect and circle back later and discuss rationally like two adults. Nothing to do with seeking validation.
I have found reacting in the moment escalates an already volatile situation, and causes unnecessary drama.
But if reacting in the moment has worked for you and your girlfriends, more power to ya.
Just giving my opinion as to what has effectively worked for me and my partners.
You and I are clearly going on different definitions of "silent treatment."
Reacting emotionally in the moment is never what I advocated. If you need to disengage before responding, then that's always the best way to go about dealing with a conflict. Just say "Look, I'm pretty angry and I need some time to cool down. When I'm ready to discuss this, I'll circle back."
In the past, I simply get in her face, lean in, and in an even, assertive tone, say "That was disrespectful, don't ever do that again." I've found that usually gets the
message across. I usually find that she immediately backs down and apologizes, and the cool-down period is not necessary.
"Silent treatment" is the petulant, punitive behavior when one party does try to circle back and discuss, after the volatility has cooled, and the other party continues to ignore them. Literally, not even responding or saying anything. When prodded for a response, they simply shrug their shoulders and mumble "I don't know" or some other passive-aggressive bullsh!t. They are clearly still upset, but refuse to communicate their feelings until they feel the other party has demonstrated enough contrition and submission to restore a dialogue.