When did the rules for crossing an intersection change?

Am I the only one to notice that people are now commonly waiting for the light to change AGAINST them before crossing a street (as a ped)? For instance- traffic is moving north and south. It is safe to cross the street going east or west. There is a light with a "go now" hand illuminated. Yet people are waiting to walk east or west. Often with a very impatient look on their face. When the light changes, they then step out into traffic and yell angrily at the cars that are missing them by a narrow margin. The "Stop Now or Die" signal is flashing. Apparently that means nothing to anyone anymore. Are people just looking for a thrill? A chance to feel invigorated by cheating death?