That stuff shows up everywhere, not just anime. People filter everything through their own life, like how they see their job or hobbies. Makes sense that childhood memories color how they view characters too.
Have you ever noticed how we all watch the same movie but walk away with different takeaways? I see this at work when my team debates a project, and everyone's past jobs or hobbies shape their ideas. Even hearing a certain song can bring back old feelings that change how you hear it now. It's crazy how our personal history colors every little thing we do!