I'd interpret it differently; 'A Spoonful of Sugar' makes it easier to convince someone of something unpleasant, be it using a nasty medicine, doing a dangerous job or something that is otherwise likely self destructive, but it has to come with something that makes it more palatable.
It seems to be more effective the more clear it is that however unpleasant it is a necessary action to take.
It seems to be more effective the more clear it is that however unpleasant it is a necessary action to take.