Defensive "stopping" causing issues?

What's with this trend of stopping at a red light and leaving space for 3 full cars in between. I'm not saying we should go bumper to bumper but I'm talking like 3 cars length of space in between. I've noticed it more and more this year alone. It causes traffic, preventing cars from getting into a right turn lane. What's the deal? Isthis how driving schools are teaching drivers now? I remember the old one car rule or drive up until you you don't see pavement ahead rule thumb