Tattoo Practices In America Research Paper

The meaning of tattoo practices in the U.S. has greatly changed over time. When the popularization of tattoos began in the 1970’s, it was not widely accepted. Since then, Americans have gradually grown fonder of tattoos, especially the younger generations. Tattoos have various meanings. Depending on the person, it may serve as a symbol of rebellion, commitment, or art. When the tattoo revolution took place in the 1970’s, it was mainly a method for men to be more expressive. Meanwhile, women were still expected to be more conservative and feminine. Although tattoo parlors had services for women, there was a “ladies” section where they had art symbols such as “little hearts and cute animals” (Thompson 2015). In addition, the art was small and …show more content…
is the stigma of body art. Some view body art in a positive light claiming that it has social benefits such as acting as an icebreaker. In the past, tattoos were primarily for those who were formally deviant; however, the practice has become more prominent across class, race, gender, and age groups. The stigma that tattoos were only for deviant individuals has gone. Although some still see body modifications as deviant and unprofessional, that thought process is gradually dying out. In a recently conducted survey which found that “18-29-year olds are by far the most tattooed generation in American history” (Strohecker 2012) really reinforces the idea that the attitudes revolving around tattoos are becoming more positive. A contributing factor may be the fact that people are getting tattoos related to their life work and what is important to them. Pratt shared her story behind her first tattoo which was a “personal gesture of commitment” (Pratt 2014). She made a promise to a friend to help complete a wildlife project which changed her course of career and really emphasized the importance of the conservation of urban wildlife. The tattoo served as a “permanent reminder of [her] life’s work” (Pratt 2014) and a tribute to what inspired her to be brave and continue pursue her passion. Another example would be NBA players inking their bodies as a way of “depicting hometowns, teams, spouses, and other images” (Raskoff 2009). Tattoos are ways for individuals to physically express things that play large roles and have great value in their lives. Of all the things that break down and disappear over time, the ink skin adornments are among the few that do