Their aim is to reinforce a behavior by eliminating or reducing an unpleasant or aversive stimulus (layoff threat, bullying, harassment) when the person performs the desired action.
The removal of the aversive stimulus serves as a reward, increasing the likelihood that it will repeat the desired behavior in the future.
Over time, the person learns that complying when commanded leads to the removal of the pressure, and the person is more likely to toe the line promptly in the future.
Sound like we are now being managed like rabid dogs 🐶 being made to heel.