(Not that most anime/manga characters do, really)
That is true. The only anime I have ever watched, in which the characters seemed very realistic was NaNa. Then again, realism isn't what I'm looking for in any work of fiction. That's why they are called works of fiction, after all. xD
Oh, how so?
You see, I work as a youth counselor. My job is basically to help adolescents with whatever problems they want my help with. The range usually covers pretty much anything between "I think I'm gay and have no idea how, when or even if I should come out" and "my parents abuse me, my lover left me, I have no friends, I do drugs and am close to killing myself." In a nutshell, my task is to become the strong constant in the life of these kids. The one who is there for help and advice, the person who remains in the background, keeps an eye on the situation and nudges them on the right path step by step whenever it's necessary. Ring a bell? ;D