The premise isn't compatible with core concepts of human dignity, but that's our society in general, so it's hard to single out 'cringe circlejerks' for being especially terrible. Most of it's fueled by immature (normal) insecurity, and I think there's some interesting empathic stuff going on somewhere in that phenomenon, especially on reddit.

That said, it's difficult for me to appreciate. "Political correctness" is a pretty good well to draw on for those who have the itch to righteously set themselves apart from inferiors flaring up. But you'll find that these kinds of forums have plenty of examples for when some shit leaks through. Straight up exhibition of mental illness and social isolation is not uncommon.

I have been disabled all of my life due to what was, at first, believed to be simple character flaws. Then, of course, it got to the point where maybe it was mental illness or something. But it wasn't mental illness that caused anyone else any problems, except the occasional cringe, so no one did shit about it.

After coming up with a hypothesis of what's wrong with me, (doing my government-assigned doctor's work for her and then having her fill out a form), I finally got diagnosed with a severe neurological disease. It's hereditary and I presume that it has been the crux of my debilitating mental illness every fucking step of the way.

This diagnosis was last week. I am 26. I was prescribed a powerful medication today. I grew up in 90/00's US White Middleclass. There really is nothing to blame for the complete lack of effectual evaluation or treatment, or community intervention, but textbook stigma.

So, while indulging in cringe definitely has some normal, and even maybe legitimately healthy aspects to it; it deserves more depth than what these subs can provide for it. But, again, you could say pretty much that for every large facet of our silly society.