There are so many variables that are not apparent to anyone not involved in Commercial Aviation.
There are significant differences between Long, Medium & short haul. As there are between single & multi sector duties.
While it may be difficult to obtain the necessary permissions for a MoP to occupy a flightdeck jumpseat it is the best possible way for you to gain a realistic perspective of the issues involved. Ideally you'd follow a crew through a typical week. But I doubt such a time consuming commitment is possible.
So without witnessing the problems for yourself who can you trust to inform you without prejudice?