Let's just say someone extremely close to me is a handicapper, tout, etc. Very successful at making a lot of money. Millions and Millions.
I really have no time or desire to post picks with regularity. I have 2 close friends that I try to help out by replying to their endless text messages asking me for my picks every day even though I only play a couple of games a week. 3 of the 4 bookies I have played with on PPH sites in the past few years have cut me off for winning too much. It is all sort of a hassle. Continually trying to not win too much to raise a red flag. To just win a little here and there so you get to keep your account. Pain in the butt. Anyway, you hit the nail on the head, I think. People follow others to have someone to blame when they inevitably lose. It is a built in excuse mechanism. You nailed it.