Within my Dive Group and on charters I’ve been on, I actually see just the opposite. Because of the heavy equipment and rocking boats, I see the women get treated a little extra nice when they are around. And, I don’t think it’s because they aren’t expected to be able to handle the equipment, there are just some that were born with manners and try to help and the males will normally lend a hand to a female quicker, if given the choice. (Or, at least that’s the way it is in my world) Never in my group has anyone treated anyone esle, male or female, with anything other than total respect. And, I would hope that’s the way it will always be. Personally, I like female dive buddies because I get longer bottom times with them as opposed to the air hogs I normally get insta-buddied with on Cattleboats..