On the recent SYD dust storm, there were a lot of diversions ADL, BNE, MEL and maybe more. I don't know about intimidation, but each diversion should be taken on it's merits. Eg: If you divert somewhere for fuel reasons, then get the fuel and on your way. If it is for a weather situation which has no predictable end, then after a 14hr flight you'd have to think about all the scenarios, even if it does cost the company money and inconvienence passengers. I don't know how the pilots and flight attendants to to/from LAX all the time. I'm stuffed for a few days every time I come back from there once or twice a year.
What isn't said is that it makes it harder to get off when you are parked on a stand off bay down at cargo.