I'd like to make a statement.
As my main is an Empathy/Electricity (w00t! Level 50!), I did a lot of your "enabling"
I know, it does reinforce a stereotype. However, it does have serious benefits. I mean, taken seriously, defenders are not really meant for much damage dealing. You can build them that way, and really well, too.
However, I have noticed at the higher levels, many people seem to forget this "ruhelar" attitude. I am more often asked for a fortify, RA, or CM than I am a heal. It's nice knowing that you're not expected to do damage, and usually a team will compensate for that.
And if I get critisized for not healing when it's not my fault. I'll quit. I swear