A tattoo is a mark, design, or word intentionally placed on the body using an electric machine that penetrates the skin. Tattoos, originally used to identify slaves and criminals, have evolved from previous stigmas surrounding them and have become very common among the general population. Many people choose to wear tattoos to express their feelings, artistic nature, beliefs, or as a way to remember and honor someone or something. However, tattoos are often still frowned upon among certain age groups, social settings, and those who are prone to certain health risks.
A large number of teens and young adults have shown an increase of interest in tattoos over the last decade. In most states, the legal age to receive a tattoo without permission from a parent or guardian is 18. This ordinance is in place to regulate teen’s spontaneous ideas and to keep them from inking something they may regret in the future. The desire of most teens to get a tattoo is temporary, but tattoos are forever.
Stereotypes about tattoos have shifted, but they often still carry a burden in certain social settings and places. For instance, the workplace is a common area where tattoos are treated condescendingly and deemed unprofessional. When going through the hiring process, working with co-workers, or dealing with customers, it is more than likely that assumptions will be made about your character based on your tattoo, good or bad. Views and opinions on tattoos can create a negative stigma and a divide in the workplace.
Many who suffer from health risks like heart disease, eczema, allergies, etc., are most susceptible to battling side effects from a tattoo. The health risks of tattoos can be limited by choosing a registered, experienced tattooist. However, you are still prone to struggling with infection, allergic reactions, and thick scarring. These side effects may only worsen over time given that the skin that contains the tattoo changes drastically throughout your life. It is important to research all of the health risks and to consult your doctor before getting a tattoo.
Personally, I would like to get a tattoo someday. When I first proposed the idea to my parents, I was repeatedly told that I must wait until I am 18 when I can make the decision for myself. After doing research on this topic, I now understand their reasoning and the importance of thinking through my decision. I have a good idea of what I want my first tattoo to be, but thanks to my parents, I have plenty of time to fully consider my design before making it permanent.
The choice to get a tattoo is a very personal decision and requires many factors to be taken into consideration. Tattoos act as a form of self expression and can communicate different signals to the public. While they are often degraded by society for influencing younger age groups, creating division and a sense of unprofessionalism in the workplace, and propose a number of health risks, there is no doubt that tattoos carry artistic value that is personalized to each individual.
Would you let your child get a tattoo? If so, what age?
Should tattoos be allowed in professional settings?
Do you know anyone who has a tattoo they regret?
Sources:
The Nation's Health.org - Play It Smart With Body Art
Cluecho.com - Tattoos & Piercings
University Of Houston.edu - Tattoos In The Workplace
Replies
I agree. I think that it depends on where the tattoo is and what is displays determines whether I would let my child get a tattoo, but ultimately once they reach a certain age it is their decision.
I would let my child get a tattoo. Being that it is their body, it is their choice. However, I would prefer that it be in a place that is not very noticeable. I think that having a tattoo should not exclude you from a professional setting. Although, you have a tattoo you should not be punished for making a legal decision. I do not know anyone who has a tattoo that they regret. Everyone I know has had a great experience getting a tattoo.
I agree. I think that because tattoos are a personal decision they should not be dictated by a workplace that legally cannot stop you from getting one.
I would let my child get a tattoo at 16 or older if it is a meaningful one. Most tattoos have a meaning behind them, I think that's what is very special about them. My mom and dad regret their first and only tattoos. What I've learned from my parents' tattoos is that you should be smart with what you put on your body and do it at an age where you are mature enough to make the smart decision.
I agree. I think that the situation of whether to get a tattoo is very personal and varies from person to person and is dependent on where and what a child wants their tattoo to be.
For sure! Tattoos are a great way to remember family members, pets, etc. I think that the age of the person getting the tattoo also depends on the maturity level of the design chosen, like meaningful words versus a silly design.
I completely agree. I think that tattoos should be meaningful when you get them at a young age and they have a purpose. Once you are older you can see how your tastes and interests change, and then be able to express yourself more freely.
I think tattoos are a very fun thing that people can do. I would allow my kid to get a tattoo if they wanted to. It is a form of self expression and if it makes them happy, I would allow it. I think tattoos should be allowed in a professional setting.
I would let my child get a tattoo after 16 because it is their body. As long as I know that my kid knows the implications and what will happen to their body. I think that tattoos should be allowed in professional settings if they don't imply anything bad.
I would allow my child to get a tattoo once they become an adult, so 18 and older. Although, I wouldn't want it to be something big, maybe just something simple, and with good meaning. Also, I think tattoos should be allowed in proffesional setting because if someone has a tattoo, that doesn't mean their not professional.
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