Joseph is nothing but a bully. The only way he can feel good about himself is by pushing other people around and forcing them to do things his way. As with most bullies, reasoning with him does no good, appealing to his better nature is a waste of time (as I discovered) and treating him with respect and compassion simply makes him worse. Giving in to him, even so far as responding to his threats and challenges, simply feeds his pathological need for self-esteem. The best way to handle a bully is simply ignore him, no matter how much he provokes and insults you. If we all simply shun Joseph, eventually he will have to go elsewhere to feed his need. I know it can be difficult, but if we all work together it will work.
Kevin L. O'Brien