If I had to guess, it's the "I'll figure it out" mentality. The problem here is, with C++, you probably will NOT figure it out!
I did the bare minimum C++ in my classes. I can write trivial little "code challenge" type things with it. (mostly imperative style, very basic OO) But, ask me anything about Templates, etc, and I'll quickly admit you've gone beyond my knowledge. I'm intrigued at the answer to this question though....