It seems to be a fairly common thing

The fact that something is common doesn't mean that it's healthy. In general people who are strongly triggered by the assertion that they are normal might engage in behavior that cuts them off from their fellow humans in order to feel more unique.

There are a bunch of people who make uncommon clothing choices and then complain when they draw attention by strangers when walking in public. When I personally walk around in Vibrams (which I got 3 years ago) I do it welcoming attention by strangers.

I have no issues with practicing my dance turns in public while waiting for a train which is not standard behavior but I don't do it out of a desire to prove that I'm unique, practicing the dance turns is about practicing the dance turns regardless of who's looking.

If you engage in a bunch activity to either prove that your normal or to prove that you are special, than you aren't doing what's most beneficial for your other goals.