As with much in life, when it comes to the verbal and physical slap, background matters. Are they both covered in the same muck or is this a victim situation? Is it an outwardly inverted victim situation? Instinct is your inner Sherlock here and convenience is the Moriarty.
There is no petty violence, verbal slap or physical, all of it matters because it accumulates upon the soul. What I said I meant. Be kind or don't be around me.
There are those that goad for the slap so that they can cry wolf. Walking away, taking the higher ground is always the better avenue.
Sure the slap stings, but knowing you aren't in control of yourself is the greater cause for concern.
There are those who will take a slap as a means to inflict the greater injury of guilt and shame on others.