[leereeves]

Some people love it. I had an uncle who was like that with his coworkers in construction; constantly teasing and criticising (and coworkers giving the same right back). Many people would think they were fighting, but they were the best of friends and enjoyed the repartee.

Some might call it toxic, and it wouldn't be allowed in a corporate environment today, but clearly no environment will please everyone. For them, it was good.