The pattern underneath
Group-level fragile self-esteem. The person may be modest about the self and grandiose about the flag, the profession, or the fandom. Threats to the group's image feel like threats to the body.
How the phrase gets misused
Used to dismiss any group pride, including ordinary belonging. Patriotism and fandom are not automatically this construct.
A more precise frame
Measure recognition hunger and insult sensitivity, not whether someone likes their people. The research already does this. Public debate usually does not.