Attitudes of young adolescents towards tattooing and body piercing

Abstract

In the last few years, our society has perceived the occurrence of tattooing and body piercing particularly in young adolescents. In some instances, tattoos and piercings are seen as part of fashion; others decide to do them to enhance their self-esteem and image with their peers. What truly motivates young adolescents to engage in such body modifications is a question that this research attempted to discover. Considerations taken before the actual process and aftercare were also explored. 58 Questionnaires were carried out amongst secondary school students aged fourteen to sixteen. 5 semi-structured interviews with young tattooed persons and 5 with pierced adolescents were also conducted. Data analyses suggested that; the image peers or relatives portray with a tattoo or a piercing influence one's decision to get pierced or tattooed; health issues are in most cases disregarded and young adolescents do not have a deep level of knowledge with regards to proper aftercare. Suggestions for further research, recommendations and examples of activities that can be used in class and youth centres are also included.