Coddling?

Throughout the recent years I have heard from a number of sources that today's younger generations are more sheltered and need to be coddled to get anything out of them. I've heard professors tell me about how their teaching methods have had to be altered after 30 years, and not for the better. The complaints go on and on. I know some would say that every generation says the same about the one before it. But, looking at this honestly and experiencing the apathy I have seen daily, is there a point where this old complaint has some truth to it? Todays youth are very technical and bright, but are they mentally and emotionally weak? Are they unable to handle adversity, and fight through it? I know parents have to protect their kids but is coddling, and sheltering them the way to go? I feel that it might be detrimental in the long run. As I deal with the youth more and more I see them fall apart at the least little things. Something my generation and older would have laughed at. Tonight, I had to talk a beautiful, bright, and good hearted girl out of taking her life. I also alerted and have her best friends around her indefinitely. I hope she pulls through ok. I feel that this topic is worth considerable thought. Life is tough, hard, and unfair. Coddling doesn't help. True learning and coping comes from experiencing. Think about the big Picture!