I simply call these forces/beings the
ego-parasites. They thrive/live in the unconscious/darkness and they feed off of all sort of conflict/affliction/negativity either self-directed or directed towards others. Many people are identified with the nest of ego-parasites as their very identity. That is why just a few words is often enough to provoke the parasitic beast to reveal its ugly head.
I find that it is very good to view the forces operating in one's mind as impersonal "alien" forces that is not "you". They are yours to take responsability for yes, but not "you" - not your identity. The forces offer different choices of reaction. If you turn down the first response/choice (often automatic/conditioned based on judgements), another choice will appear. This new choice will come from a clearer/calmer space and it will be of a higer quality than the first. The prayer from George Green's
Handbooks for a new Paradigm can be of good help here: "I/he/she is a human becoming, help me/him/her to become!". With that in mind it is easier to forgive self and others.
These forces are not "evil/bad" in my view. They are doing an important job. They are extremely good at finding weaknesses and what buttons to push. Thus, they will point out to you what you need to "work on" in yourself. Only lies can get provoked, because truth has nothing to defend. These forces should be seen as providing the catalyst for change/growth, and not as the "enemy". Use the Lightsword of Awareness to cut through.
Love,
Sanat