In many respects Ichigo was set up/prepared to be like he is. By his father, Urahara and even Aizen to some extent. Just look at how he got his Bankai. It was something devised by Urahara. Even his Soul Reaper powers came with a big string attached in that he has to fight to keep his Inner Hollow under control. Also there have been a few cases where Ichigo has screwed up and made matters worse, no better. Not to mention he has gotten badly beaten on more than one occation and only survived throught he efforts of others.