Are we becoming so focused on protecting people from stress, failure, disappointment, and consequences that we're actually making people less prepared for real life?
Today we're looking at two VERY different stories connected by one bigger question:
Are we getting too soft on people?
First, the University of Michigan's College of Literature, Science and the Arts is changing how first-semester grades appear for incoming freshmen. Students will still receive grades and feedback, but their external transcripts will show Pass or No Credit, and those grades will not affect their GPA.
Supporters say it gives students time to adjust to college, encourages exploration, and reduces unnecessary pressure.
But does removing consequences actually prepare students for adulthood?
Then we head to The King's Court for a wild case out of Phoenix.
Police allege a Shake Shack employee called out sick, returned masked and armed, robbed his own workplace, held coworkers at gunpoint and then returned to work days later.
His alleged explanation included going through difficult circumstances and having children.
And that's where today's larger conversation begins:
When does understanding someone's circumstances turn into excusing their decisions?