I'm sure there are some bad apples, just like in every work group. Honestly, as I've said numerous times I can count on one hand the less than satisfactory experiences I've had on US carriers. I've also had some crappy ones on foreign airlines. (I hate to say it, but wonder if foreign FAs give better service to male passengers than female ones)..
If crew members are burnt out and don't enjoy the job anymore, they absolutely should leave. You either LOVE being a FA or HATE it....no in-between.
I also grow tired of hearing of the foreign airlines who can legally discriminate against those who aren't "attractive, young or thin." Again, is that what US citizens want?? Do we REALLY want to go back to the days where that was legal? Here's a little secret I'll let you in on. Airlines DO discriminate against older candidates, especially those with experience. Of course they hire a few here and there, but most are rejected even though they show up to an interview dressed and groomed EXACTLY as they should be and provide the correct answers to the interviewers questions, mingle with the other candidates, etc. Do you know why they're rejected? It's NOT because of their physical attributes or their age, per se. It's because they want people they can "mold" their own way (which is code for newbies who are naive to the business and won't question things.) It's a shame they think that way as FAs who've been around a while know exactly how reserve works, how to commute, etc. and most older folks have a great work ethic. Many newbies either quit within a year (most in less time) or get fired since they miss their boyfriend, their mommy, their dog, didn't think being told they'd be flying on a holiday applied to them, report late to a flight for whatever reason, etc. . Also, why do some believe young means attractive, thin and friendly? It has absolutely nothing to do with it, as you know.
Airline management has cut things close to the bone and made life pretty miserable for all (except the management ranks). Is that a reason to provide bad service? Absolutely not....but everyone's idea of "good service" is different. I only want a decent disposition, someone who keeps the passengers safe and treated equally, and someone who I feel is capable of commanding an evacuation. I don't need to look at a pretty or handsome face, a killer body, a person no older than 35, etc. --- but that's just me. I always board a flight with a smile, a hello to the crew, take my seat and follow all the instructions, say please and thank you, and wouldn't you know I get treated pretty damn good every time. (I NEVER throw out that I'm a FA as I think they sometimes feel you're looking or some special treatment.) However, if they find out I get treated even better...sometimes with free snack boxes or a sandwich or cocktail tossed my way.
BTW, I am a great gal....lol