I do think these writers need to learn a fun little rule:

When characters act out of character, it can be a disturbing, emotional turn for the audience and signify great change in the character. However, if you have them constantly act out of character, then you suck at writing without turning to gimmicks to grab the audience's attention.

Case in point: I think, over the course of the two movies, Spock has beaten the crap out of so many people that it's no longer even remotely outside of his character. This new Kirk is a fratty douche, and the new Spock likes to scream and beat people up. Fabulous...