Whether it's by evolution or by design, the flock (or herd) mentality is almost in every human being. It's a survival mechanism that gives us the soothing relief of 'I'm not alone.' Humans took that mentality to the next level by applying it to emotional experience as well. The moment we know we're not alone, a feeling of strength kicks in under the illusion that it's more difficult to break a group rather than an individual. Flocking gives instant appreciation, acknowledgement, and a sense of safety.

The more confident, independent, and stronger one is, the less the need to flock. Same way strong lions don't move in herds (as opposed to sheep).

My two cents.

When talking with a friend, she will always counter what I am saying with a story from her. I dont think its a matter of validation here. I think its her way of relating and connecting so that we both express to each other that we have gone through the same experience. This I think makes it easier to empathize with people.

When we look for these experiences in others then that is a whole other concept. Maybe we are to validate or it maybe to find a way to connect with others. I dont know.