Many have got the very same problem with my boss as well, mainly because he criticises very very harshly, doesn't care for reasons/explanations, and says your fault for all to hear (which is quite inevitable as we work in a group). However anyone who works with him for over a couple of years soon come to realise that's his way of pushing us to get better. And those who stay and get past the criticism do get so good, it's amazing.
Can't help but pity the newbies though. It can be quite tough.
It's the same way where I work. It's tough to be new but some people don't learn even though they've been there for a long time. I find that people that are often perceived as jerks are often not as bad as others make them out to be. It's all about seeing things in the right position.