To STEM or not to STEM was our major focus when my daughter was in middle school. Many of our parent-friends thought we were crazy because we were focused on trying to help her learn what she likes to do. In middle school she tried 3 different sports (very athletic 6’0 lacrosse, soccer and volleyball player) but ultimately continued to become a classically trained violinist (recently playing at Carnegie Hall).
Yes, many people believe that kids shouldn’t be pushed to make a decision because most 17 year olds don’t know what they want to do. Compare this to the fact that one of the best ways to cut the cost of college is to know what you want to study before you go. As @NHuffer said a gap year should be considered.
Further, not knowing your direction before college MAY affect gaining work experience during your college experience through internships as the selection process for those internships may focus on the major choice of the student.
The world and it’s opportunities move so fast now-a-days. When I was in college 25 years ago there was no rush to declare. I put myself through college so I didn’t have a lot of time to be undecided. I was an accounting and business administration major who loved physics. I loved everything about it. When I was chosen for a government internship 28 years ago I was glad I chose a major.