*Sighs* It definitely bears researching. Unfortunately, it was never really explained in canon, so we're left to our own devices in that respect. Doubly unfortunately, given their treatment in the present, I hardly expect that they were treated well to begin with and have naturally 'evolved' to be sycophantic and devoutly masochistic.
Dobby is a prime example. Even though Harry does his best to treat Dobby well, Dobby will still punish himself by trying to beat his own brains out if he senses that Harry is the least bit dissatisfied.
Dobby is a prime example. Even though Harry does his best to treat Dobby well, Dobby will still punish himself by trying to beat his own brains out if he senses that Harry is the least bit dissatisfied.