Wielding a small caliber rifle for self defense (in an enclosed environment) is not a great idea with no training. Yeah it CAN possibly work under the circumstances, but why would you want to throw a BB sized round at someone when you can use a scattergun? With a very untrained individual behind the .22LR, you are just asking to get your ass slapped around, hurt and potentially killed.
Granted most confrontations would probably end if an AR or variant there of was brought into the equation, but when you have multiple don't give a shit individuals in your house and you are trying to stop the threat with a 22LR, well you are just looking to get hurt.
I am not arguing the effectiveness of a 22LR round--it is proven effective when used correctly in the right hands but, I am arguing your logic. Why would you want to slap someone with a branch when you can throw a tree stump at them?