*Nods back* Yup yup...I can definitely see where your theories are coming from, though I can't say I fully agree or disagree. A lot of it is stereotyping, and like you said, it isn't 100% the reason, but I can't deny how it might seem that way. The females get shafted more often than not, but as Adi and I were saying the coolness does seep through every now and again, and that's better than nothing. "Steps in the right direction" and all that. :)

So, I can see your points/theories, and I agree with some, though not all of it. Lots of kunoichi are going medic-nin and we've got one barefoot and pregnant (as the saying goes) ... and widowed at that ... hopefully their awesomeness comes through with time. And not just with the kunoichi, but with all the neglected characters (Haven't seen much of Team 8 in Naruto II). :(