answer:I’ve never been a cheerleader and I’ve never really wanted to. I played sports like volleyball and basketball instead. But I know that cheerleaders can and do benefit greatly from the experience. First off, I don’t think it’s so much about parents wanting their daughters to be cheerleaders, more than their daughters wanting to be cheerleaders and as a parent supporting this want of the child. Cheerleading is not all about flaunting around in skimpy clothing. Cheerleading, like any other sport, is great exercise and builds up stamina, coordination and strength. It teaches people how to work together as a team and build and maintain leadership skills. Interacting with the crowd develops interpersonal skills. It instills confidence and self-discipline. It teaches one to follow directions and take constructive criticism. It can help someone overcome stage freight due to performing in front of large crowds. Since you have to maintain an enthusiastic and positive attitude, it can help with remaining optimistic throughout one’s lifetime. That in itself contributes majorly to one’s quality of life. Of course, none of this can be achieved if it is not enforced by the captain(s) or coach, but it basically is what can and often is achieved by a cheerleader who wants to fulfill these goals and really get something positive out of the experience.