That's perhaps a flaw in professional work? I would think twice before hiring, if you said that your work output depended on feeling connected to your coworkers.
Good software isn't written in a vacuum. Discussing ideas with others is essential, and that's easier with mutual respect.
Does it help produce a better product for the customer and/or more $?
I think it would help the most in employee retention
Absolutely. Well functioning team = more efficient = lower costs for the client.