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What Causes People to Get Tattoos

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“What causes people to get tattoos?”
Tonny Cobos
SOC100030VA016-1146-011
August 18, 2014

What causes people to get tattoos?

Who doesn’t have a tattoo or know someone who does in modern society? 16% of all adults in the United States have at least one tattoo (Harvard Health). In today's society tattoos are completely acceptable. America is the melting pot of the world where diversity and cultures are welcomed. Society is begging to accept “ink”.
People that work in business usually have them where they are not easily seen, but a roofer for example it is okay to have them where they are easily seen. If a tattoo is placed appropriately on your body and it is something tasteful, why not. Many celebrities state “tattoos aren't there just to look cool and different. Tattoos have special meaning and they are real, permanent tattoos” (Johnson).
This is in no way supposed to stereotype anyone, but to answer some questions about why a person would decide to get something permanently imprinted on their skin.” First there is the reason of a loved one (Jackson).Then there are religious tattoos, many people get this tattoo as a sign of devotion to their beliefs, and is very commendable (Jackson). Next there is the military tattoo Jackson (2007).Then there is the just for fun tattoo. Finally there is the “oh no” mistake tattoo. Of course there will be tattoos that do not fit into any of these categories, but these are definitely common reasons. Tattoos remind people of their roots, their careers or their family. Some even have spiritual meaning.
The article, “On teenagers and Tattoos”, written by Dr. Andres Martin examines the motivation, significance and function of tattoos for teenagers. Dr. Martin explains that by understanding the reasons or inspirations behind tattoos. For example, the text explains that while adolescents view tattoos as “personal and beautifying statements”. Martin is just trying to explain that if they view tattoos with an open mind, then maybe they can have a better understanding of why this is a growing epidemic within the teen community. The increase of tattoos and piercings amongst young adults has grown significantly since the 1970’s and shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. Martin’s reasons for the growing popularity of tattoos are: Adolescences seek identity, showing ownership of one’s body, and the quest for permanence through three persuasive appeals logos, pathos, and ethos. Tattoos can be a way to help teenagers with their identity crisis or help them seek individualism. As Dr. Martin said, “Tattoos and piercings can offer a concrete and readily available solution for many of the identity crises and conflicts normative to adolescent development.” Tattooing is a form of self expression; a way of determining your personal identity and individuality. It is clear to me that tattooing is a non trivial culture that is definitely not transient. Tattooing is indisputably a useful expression of society today. Tattooing is a subculture that dates back 5300 years. It has been developing since then and has grown to be one of the most prevalent pop culture groups of the 21st century. Tattoos are exceptionally influential, especially when looking at aspects such as art, or decorative body modification. Statistics show the American acceptance for tattoos has grown by more than 16% in the last 60 years. This is more than 10 million people who have become more prone to the art of tattooing in America alone.
Tattoos have had a great influence in popular media, such as books, magazines and television programs which include programs such as: “Miami Ink” and “LA Ink”. These forms of Mass media are highly contributable to the rapid growth of this art. They place the true qualities of tattooing on display. These examples of modern media have also had a great impact on the way that we see tattooing today. It has changed the view of tattoos from something that would previously view as the “scum of the earth”, to a more commercial, influential and popular products. Sometimes it is the simple attraction to something exotic that influences one to try the unknown. It is that same charm and unique quality that brings people closer to tattoos, that drives others away.

References

Jackson, Brian. 5 Reasons Why People Get Tattoos. Health Source - Consumer Edition. 2007,
December Web. 30 April 2012.

Johnson, Teddi Dineley. "Tattoos And Piercings: Play It Smart With Body Art." Nation's
Health 41.4 (2011): 24. Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition. Web. 30 April 2012.

Martin, Andres, Dr. “On teenagers and Tattoos”. Academic Search Premier. 2006, November.
Web. 30 April 2012.

"Tattoos: Leaving Their Mark." Harvard Health Letter 33.5 (2008): 7. Health Source - Consumer
Edition. Web. 30 April 2012.

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