> So I'm inclined to believe what AWJ said about home computers being at least related > to the cause.
I think it's a complex issue.
Social mobility is much higher now. The availability of home computers has lowered the bar and men have benefitted the most.
The bottom feeder software developers are always going to be male. It's much easier for the girls with equivalent intelligence to just get a job where their appearance gets them an easier ride.
The girls who at one point didn't have much of an outlet for their above average intelligence until computers came along, now have other more exciting prospects.
I imagine girls are also not attracted to working in an environment filled with male software developers. Sure there are some normal male developers, but the IT industry has more than it's fair share of socially awkward men.
Taking them to a topless bar could be seen as therapy.