If you are feeling like you need to defend your self-worth try thanking your partner for sharing their thoughts with you, and tell them you would like some time to think about what they had to say and you will talk to them about it when you feel more clear about your thoughts and feelings. In this way you are not agreeing with any new information, yet, you are willing to think about it. Then, think about it. This strategy helps you to pause rather than jump.