I'm not certain whether this thread is addressing the fear of making mistakes "on position" or is addressing using the fear factor in ATC training.
The thing controllers - and human beings in general - most fear is loss of self esteem if a mistake is made. Of course, we fear punishments, tragic consequences and the like, but bottom line: we dread making mistakes because they make us look bad. And I'm not talking smacking two together - God forbid - but even the most minor, inconsequential blunders that none of us can avoid. Shame and humiliation are built-in emotions that keep us always trying our hardest and doing out best. Not necessarily a bad thing, right?
Using fear and intimidation in the training process, while not politically correct these days, also has its place. Berating students, harassing them: no. Making them feel really uncomfortable around their own mistakes: priceless!
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