Any kind of competition can have real rewards at the highest levels. Many people like shooting their friends in paintball on the weekend with rented gear but there is also a professional level where there is real money and sponsorships available. Many male animals will engage in some sort of competition, sometimes with rewards and risks (mates, food, death) and sometimes just for play. It's ridiculous to act like competitive online gaming is any different from puppies rough housing or from lions fighting over leadership of the pride. No one is going to die but gaming could just be something fun to do after being at work all day or it could be what puts food on the table.

> Young men

Why make this a gender thing?

Probably because it doesn't outwardly appear to affect young women so much?

People should be able to make such observations.