This is a very interesting discussion.
It's even more interesting to see how much parental criticism plays a part in all of our lives and the effect it had on the way we now view the world.
In my house it is my mother who is the criticizing one.
She is a very anxious and and somewhat agressive person, she expects things to be done the way she wants them and when she wants them.
If something isn't done according to her wishes she uses some very colorful words to express her anger.
My father used to be the one to defend me. Especially when I was still in high school and was going through a rough time... he's somewhat more avoidant and socially anxious himself, so I might have learned that from him.
I find it natural to become avoidant and self concious and always on guard when all you've learned through life is that not setisfying other people will get you anger, criticism or even regection.