WHBM. I know what the text books all say and Im in no way suggesting that practice pans should not be made, far from it.
In fact I would encourage PPL students to make a "practice pan" call early in their training. I just wish there was a seperate distresss frequency that dictates a slightly less priority than a mayday call, thus leaving 121.50 open and for use in a real emergency.
As for practice Pan calls by lost/dissorientated GA pilots - I think you will find that it is more common than you think! There are very few pilots who have never been lost/dissorientated during PPL days - Its just that bravado would prevent many from ever admitting it. Its the same sort of bravado and the "im allright jack" approach to flying that prevents many pilots from requesting assitance "pan call" early, before the situation deteriates and turns into a mayday sistuation.
Im not having a go at PPL's/GA pilots at all, the vast majority of miss-use of 121.50 occurs from vastly experienced commercial pilots who should know better!!!