i have installed more than a hundred links on other peopls bikes, and generally they´re loved by all. i never use ém myself!!
hope this really clarifies it for you

i´ll ask if it can be related to my upbringing..

idunno , i think its the fact that i dont like to be able to open my chain with my hands. its so wrong to me, sorry..

and about - if its weaker.. i have never seen a link that was cracked, but lots of broken chains..so eh..[scratching my head- looking lost]