....I would contend that criticism (of the negative flavor) is actually easier, generally reactive and requires little to no effort.
There tend to be varying size gaps between the intent of the deliverer and the impact on the receiver. So feedback, suggestions, flirtations, misguided mentorship and sheer boredom could all be misconstrued based on the delivery, situation and strength of relationship.....
Personally, med school training is based on the premise of quickly identifying and "critisizing" the junior doctors/students under the guise of mentorship, so I have learned to be impervious to most criticism. Trends in comments become worthy of examination.
Lately, I've been trying to observe/ask and understand the other person's intent rather than my perception....ie, the trite "don't take it personally"-- one may not have offended nor have anything to learn...
