Why can't women be more assertive when they're attracted to a guy....?

Because women are afraid of being seen as desperate if they approach a guy and many women still believe in tradition that men should be the initiator.

only white women are assertive, and some mexican women. Some. most of the reason cause society makes women feel like desperate when they do that. Like they are trying to force something that should just happen. Although i will add its always the women who complain "how come my friend picks up more girls and im the better looking or the skinny one (just like posted a second ago). You have to approach people. Once again the more people you approach the better your chances are. And if you at a bar, it doesn't matter anyway cause everybody is on the same level there.

Some are stuck in the traditional beliefs, and are also scared of rejection. As for me, I wouldn't call myself assertive but I do make some moves that do give guys that I'm interested in a clue. I like feedback, and that's the only way I make some moves on a guy if a see a good response from him. Maybe you should try that method; it might help your situation.

It depends on places and persons. Not the same in Brasil, for example.

And, it's a remainder of thousands years of patriarchy.

Incidentally, women must understand that if they want equality, they'll have to learn new attitudes also, instead of just taking good parts and letting difficulties to men. At least, that's my point of view.

We are not totally out of patriarchy; too assertive women are often called "tarts"... It's still a part of explanantion.

That depends where you live. In Texas women are very assertive.

they're just like that. They want you to be the man and give all the words, not them. So next time, try to be the boss, 8)