Hypothesis: We live in an increasingly digital world detached from physical reality. Many people are more familiar with scifi and fantasy media (books, anime, TV shows, cartoons) than they are with the actual works that surrounds them. These identities are reflections that they "live" more in these imaginary worlds, and since the social environment online is constructed, they can be whatever they want. This is what feels more real to them

We also all need to feel special and relevant. This isn't shameful, and we shouldn't shame others for it. It's a basic human need. For an increasing number of people, this is the only way they can think to stand out and fulfill this need.