Fantastic post. I think your theory has some validity.
There are more things that come into it (as always) but I'm sure you understand that.
Mirror neurones are certainly very important in social interactions.
I also like your advice in how to get out of the "rut" of a pathological peer group.
I think it is common for people with problems to have various re-inforcing factors and your social group/peer group can be a very strong one.
@thecryptofiend, the thing is...the advice makes sense, but we most often fail to put into practice. I'm not sure how many of us can be really proud of their social surroundings...yet, we remain complacent.