As with all things, there are good and bad examples.
I have been on a number of self-catering holidays to Europe and my fellow guests have made me cringe with their behaviour. Conversely I have taken a number of AI holidays (most notably to the Maldives and the Caribbean) which have been delightful.
I think a number of AI resorts in Europe do indeed attract guests that are determined to “have their money’s worth” come what may. They are probably the same people who made me cringe on some of my self-catering holidays. However, there are resorts which attract, shall we say, a more discerning class of guest. Paying a bit more will not necessarily guarantee a chave-free zone. You just need to look around a bit. Unfortunately review sites such as TripAdvisor do not have a "chavometer"!
There is no need to be “banged up” with your fellow guests. You are free to come and go as you please. You’ve simply paid for your drink and comestibles in advance. You will get “chavs” wherever you go and they are not confined to or particularly prevalent in all AI resorts.
By the way, factor, food and drink at AI resorts is by no means free, it is paid for in advance !!