Yes! it's a dangerous habit to adopt if putting your life online, and needing to remain likeable to make money.I personally think it's ridiculous that they never accept any sort of constructive criticism, or feedback of any kind! I work in the music industry, so I know how important feedback is, and how helpful it is to improve yourself. I think you're right, and they've now deluded themselves into thinking that they are perfect the way they are and everyone adores them. They're both caught in their little bubble (or "comfort zone" as Zoe calls it) and they've surrounded themselves with yes men to drown out the "haters" (i.e. the people who put them where they are in the first place).
I think by banning any feedback, criticisms etc it didn't go away, it just built up into a tidal wave of frustration in the form of forums such as gg and others video's such as Jackmates. It didn't go away, it just got bigger! Considerably bigger.
If my earnings came from yt, I'd value all feedback and take stock. Some companies pay to receive that kind of valuable feedback and info, but those two shunned it like it was the devil, to their detriment. lol
One of the most dangerous habits in the world, is to surround yourself with yes men (or women!)