Comment by mdp2021

> outlet valve

It is very rational: some need the experiences to meet the natural instances, and virtual ones suffice.

> self-medication hypothesis for alcoholism

Do not even joke: alcoholism is (*) an addiction (*) to an intoxicant...

> watch lots

That's you assuming things.

> helping them with some problem or another

Still you with your constructs: maybe they just enjoy it like other pleasant experiences.

> negative consequences

That confirms "it's you": which "negative consequences"? We do not see any necessary damaging impact.