Science

It's so easy to underestimate positive reinforcement, but it can make a big difference.

Personally, I don't mind receiving a compliment sandwich as long as the compliments are genuine, and the criticism is constructive.

I can tell when people are doing it, but still appreciate the effort when it's done right. There are probably better strategies to use, but definitely prefer that to the ultra negative shit on everything management style. I had a boss like that for ~2 years, and it just made every aspect of work so miserable.