I’m a 64 yr old, Simming since the 80’s and I totally understand where you’re coming from.
As others have said, it’s not just the flightsim forums, it’s a general malaise, if not global then certainly common in the “West”.
Due to work I have done and other experience I’m certain I know why although I despair at doing anything about it. I can’t control others behaviour and it is tempting to just withdraw and cease to interact…but…Although you and I don’t have control over the ■■■■ that others dish out we do have influence.
Did you ever notice, when you were young and trendy long, long ago 
, that if you bought a shirt that looked cool and was a good cut that maybe one or two of your mates (or folk you had seen in your day to day travels) would later be seen wearing the same style of shirt. Nothing had been said and no acknowledgment but obvious influence. You have to be seen though.