Can't rename folder in Macos Monterey - Click on folder opens it instantly

I am on an M1 Macbook Air. I used to be able to rename a folder by clicking on it once, then clicking again, but not too quickly, which would open the folder. This functionality has gotten less and less functional with OS upgrades over the years. Now I can't use it at all in macOs Monterey.

If I tap on the folder once, it opens instantly. If I tap two fingers on the touchpad, I get a menu, but when I click on Rename, the folder also opens instantly - no chance to rename. If I control-click to get the menu, the same thing happens - the folder opens instantly, no chance to rename.

The only way I have found to rename is to open the folder, go into the "Action" icon, and click on Rename there. This takes me back to the folder icon in the original directory, with name highlighted so I can rename it. This seems like an unnecessary amount of bother.

Perhaps this is a touchpad sensitivity issue. In general, I am not thrilled with the touchpad function on the M1. I have tried fiddling with the adjustments in Preferences - it is either a bit hypersensitive and over-reactive, or a bit taciturn and unresponsive. it reminds me of the olden days trying to adjust a Windows laptop touchpad.

Any suggestions?