There is a difference between "explaining" and "excusing". There is a level of personal responsibility that needs to happen. But we also, as a society, need to

There is a difference between "explaining" and "excusing". There is a level of personal responsibility that needs to happen. But we also, as a society, need to understand the reasons that people make sub-optimal decisions and work to provide valid ways people can learn to make better ones. I'm not excusing individuals making poor decisions, but rather trying to find the explanation for it in a non-judgement fashion. I'm not accusing you of this, but in my experience, the people who preach "personal responsibility" often do not take the time to understand the issues preventing people from making good decisions, and so aren't even working on the right problem in many cases. And in saying that, please be aware that I do feel there is a place for personal responsibility and it's an important factor in anyone improving their situation. Just not the only factor needed.