I've been "lurking" on this post...interesting. I can't speak for CX, but I can tell you that in the States, fear and intimidation can and does exist in the Regionals. Especially, old school CRJ training at ACA. I know several new hires that were canned, went to other regionals and now they are doing fine. CA upgrade pink slips were so common that United practically disregarded them when they interviewed candidates (this was before 9/11).
Our union got together with management and proved that draconian training methods were costing the company millions of dollars. The pattern seemed to be a few individuals were running the training program as if we were flying space shuttles. They were ousted and now we have a much better program without compromising quality. I was fortunate...I was hired after the changes took place.
Draconian training methods only costs the company money. The myth that it makes "better pilots" is not only absurd, it will eventually cause financial hardships for your company and may cost evenyone their jobs. Leave the "machismo" at home.