That is because most bosses are skilled in managing process but are not skilled in managing people . The problems with bosses, at every level, are almost always leadership, consistency, and compassion. These are not process skills, they are people skills, and it is their deficiency that makes a bad boss. When you are not trained for leadership, it is very, very hard to lead. When you do not know how to lead people, you must find other ways to motivate them.
Bosses fall back on intimidation and attitude because they produce quick results.
Consistency of action requires confidence of purpose. In turn, confidence brings forth compassion. The lack of one is the lack of all. If your boss is one of those people who has been thrown up against the corporate wall it will help you if you recognize that fact. Understanding the job of boss, and the differences between being a boss and being a worker, brings perspective to confusing and illogical actions.