The Free Counselor's news

Here is a dilemma: How do you alleviate conflict with someone who constantly treats you condescendingly (says stuff like "Hey little buddy" and patting your head, etc. You get the picture)? Especially if it is at the work place? Perhaps you have the STRONG sense that even if you confronted them, they would react, retreat, probably be defensive and in the end get worse. Advice? Mark