> I feel like the last 5-10 years or so, folks have put increasing stock in being (or being portrayed as) a victim.

I've actually noticed the same pattern where I live in Europe. Some young adults go to great lengths to find a psychiatrist that will diagnose them something. I heard than on multiple occasions, reported by doctors themselves, and anecdotal evidence.

To be honest, I don't know how much this is a reality, and how much of it is an old man rant :)