I know this article is a little old, but I found it interesting nonetheless and I thought that I'd share it with all of you. I just hope this is the correct manner in which to share this so please forgive me if this isn't the correct way.. http://io9.com/5925015/the-one-thing-about-geordi-that-levar-burton-wishes-star-trek-had-explored-his-sexuality
Yes, I hated that LaForge was inept around women. I felt that was unfortunate for the actor and the character.
I thought it was realistic in the sense that not everyone actually has a lot of relationships. My brother is like this, he's a loner by choice. So I relate to Geordi LaForge as a character. I am glad they didn't go for that "original wardrobe/makeup test" look. That would have dated the show a bit much.
Grant, I couldn't agree with you more to save the universe...if that makes any sense. I too hated how LaForge was inept around women. He doesn't have to be Kirk-like, but give him something....at least something that wasn't a holodeck creation or something. I do admit that I was tickled to death when Worf was "tutoring" LaForge on love and women..."women must be conquered."
Yes ,there is a middle ground between Kirk and inept. It was almost a Barclay level of nervousness as it concerned women for Geordi.