Gaddiel R. Martinez Social Psychology Dr. Farber February 23, 2010
Introduction: This paper will discuss the psychology of Tattoos, including their Origin, the process of getting one, and their psychological effect on individuals who have them. It will also explore the reactions of those who do not participate in this art form. Research indicates that getting a Tattoo can be a significant and permanent experience in one’s life. As the saying goes, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” which applies to this case.
Whether through cherished photographs or lasting memories, some individuals have a desire to preserve certain moments forever. On the other hand, there are those who choose to adorn their bodies with these images for the sake of popularity. Nevertheless, both situations allow people to appreciate beauty in various forms. The term “Tattoo” finds its origins in two distinct words: “Ta,” originating from Polynesian and meaning “striking something,” and “Tatau,” derived from Tahitian and signifying “to mark something.” Dating back over 5000 years, the art of tattooing has continuously evolved alongside its enthusiasts.
Tattoos are formed by inserting colored materials beneath the surface of the skin. The initial tattoos were likely created unintentionally when someone with a small wound rubbed it with a hand covered in soot and ashes from a fire. Once the wound healed, they discovered that a permanent mark remained. Nowadays, tattoos are done in a different manner. The skin consists of multiple layers, with the outermost layer being the Epidermis, a thin layer that provides protection and containment. Below the Epidermis lies the Dermis.
The ‘meat’ layer of your skin, also known as the thicker layer, is where hair is attached. Beneath this layer lies the Subcutaneous layer, which holds fat cells and acts as a transfer layer connecting the skin to the bloodstream. Your epidermis undergoes constant replenishment; however, excessive sun exposure can lead to redness and peeling. In the event of a scratch or cut, the skin typically heals and the injury vanishes. However, this outcome would not be desirable for a tattoo since it would disappear once the skin renews itself. To create a tattoo that lasts, the tattooist pierces through the Epidermis and injects ink into the Dermis.
The permanence of a tattoo lies in the fact that the dermis, which remains unchanged throughout a person’s life, is where the design is placed. If tattoos are done too deeply, into the subcutaneous layer, they often lose clarity because the inner layers do not retain the ink and instead absorb it. Once the ink reaches the dermis, it forms a permanent bond. A prime example of tattoo permanence occurred in 1991, when a five thousand year old tattooed man, known as the “Ice man,” gained worldwide attention when his frozen body was discovered on a mountain between Austria and Italy.
The Ice man discovered is unparalleled in preservation. His skin boasts 57 tattoos, including a cross on his left knee, six straight lines measuring 15 centimeters above his kidneys, and numerous parallel lines on his ankles. The location of these tattoos suggests they were likely used for therapeutic purposes, potentially to treat arthritis. This ancient specimen dates back five thousand years and is just one example of the various cultures and individuals who have displayed their connection to tattoos throughout history.
In Siberia, a collection of tombs was recently discovered, containing mummies that originated from 2400 years ago. These mummified individuals possessed tattoos on their bodies, depicting various animals and religious symbols that held immense importance to them. These tattoos were permanently inked onto their skin as a means of remembrance. Similarly, in Egypt, bodies dating back to the XI Dynasty (2160 BC to 1994 BC) have been unearthed, showcasing intricate abstract geometric designs tattooed onto their bodies. Japan also has evidence of early tattoo practices, with the earliest documented record dating back to 297 AD in a Chinese dynastic history.
The Japanese were primarily attracted to the aesthetic appeal of art rather than its religious, medical, or magical significance. The Horis, who were the Japanese tattoo artists, were universally recognized as the most skilled and exceptional in this art form. Their utilization of vivid colors, unique perspectives, and imaginative patterns brought a fresh perspective to both the practice and the art itself. A traditional Japanese tattoo consists of a complete body suit. Furthermore, the practice of tattooing extends to various cultures including India, Greece, France, Indonesia, and even among individuals with dark skin in Africa.
Despite the limitations of dark skin preventing the use of color in traditional tattoos, individuals still desired to be tattooed and have developed an alternative technique. This involves creating scarifications, which although distinct from tattooing, share a connection. The process entails lifting the skin slightly and making cuts with a knife or another sharp object. To create raised scars in specific patterns on the body, sands or ashes are rubbed into the wounds. Once completed, these scars can be felt similar to Braille lettering, offering a tactile experience. The patterns chosen often reflect local customs and traditions.
During their initial voyage to the southern seas in 1769, some sailors accompanying James Cook chose to have their skin decorated by the natives of Tahiti as a memento of their encounters with the unfamiliar and peculiar culture. This act introduced the concept of “Tataus,” a traditional native ritual, to Europe as a fashion trend. Initially, these tattoos mainly consisted of indigenous tribal symbols, which laid the foundation for today’s Tribal Tattoos. By the late 18th century, tattoos had become widespread among sailors and the British navy was the first to extensively document various tattoo designs.
In his “Journey around the World,” Russian Admiral Krusenstern mentioned that every man in his crew received tattoos while at sea. Tattoos were so popular during that time that a professional tattoo artist was brought on board the ship to tattoo all the men. Samuel O’Reilly, a successful New York tattoo artist and the inventor of the modern rotary tattoo machine, stated, “A Sailor without a Tattoo Is like a Ship without Grog: Unseaworthy.” The majority of tattoos were still done by native artists on sailors, and gradually, the native tribal motifs were blended with European designs.
Originally, tattoos done in the southern seas often featured iconic symbols like Palm Trees, Exotic Birds, Ships, Anchors, Pin-Ups, or Light Houses. These designs held significant symbolic meaning for the individuals who wore them, reflecting their ties to their homeland and serving as good luck symbols. Today, these traditional tattoos are categorized as maritime designs. Upon Captain Cook’s arrival in the islands during the late 1700s, missionaries quickly made their way there.
Despite being condemned as a symbol of superstition and sorcery, tattoos were widely practiced and highly developed for thousands of years. However, tattoo art came under attack and was almost completely eradicated within a few decades. Only old paintings and photographs managed to preserve the sophisticated body art form. Sailors played a significant role in spreading the tattooing traditions they learned from natives, both on board their ships and during shore leaves. Consequently, professional tattoo shops emerged in seaports worldwide.
The owners of the shops were primarily ex-sailors who, due to limited options, continued to apply Tataus in the traditional native manner until 1891 when Samuel O’Reilly revolutionized the process with the electro mechanic tattoo machine. This invention allowed artists to apply tattoos more quickly and with less pain. In modern society, many individuals tend to hold negative views and pass judgment on those with tattoos. When confronted with someone heavily tattooed, these individuals automatically assume the worst about the person engaging in this form of art.
Those who possess tattoos are similar to you and me and others in every way, with the exception that they desire to distinguish themselves due to their firm understanding of their own identity and lack of fear in expressing it. Tattoos often convey a person’s narrative or convictions. Essentially, tattoos reveal an individual’s essence and principles. People with tattoos possess a resolute sense of self which they have no intention to conceal. They harbor no apprehension of public judgment and eagerly embrace the opportunity to share their beliefs.
There is a misconception among some individuals who analyze the mindset of individuals with tattoos; they tend to perceive them as mentally troubled and observe them with a similar curiosity as observing peculiar animals in captivity. However, this perception based on shallow understanding is far from accurate. In truth, these tattoo enthusiasts are embracing a sense of freedom. They choose to permanently ink their bodies as a way to commemorate a loved one, honor their faith or heritage, or simply express their profound beliefs. By delving deeper into the significance behind these tattoo designs, one can truly comprehend why individuals proudly wear and display them.
Psychologists face challenges in comprehending the mindset of tattooed individuals because of a persistent stereotype linking tattoos to criminals and thugs. Although it is accurate that criminals have traditionally adorned themselves with tattoos and still do, it is equally true that people with tattoos can be among the most amiable and pleasant individuals globally (including myself!). This stereotype unjustly assesses minority factions solely based on their looks, resulting in their automatic categorization into distinct social strata.
The body art community is frequently perceived as rebellious, irresponsible, unintelligent, and potentially criminal. This bias resembles the act of judging individuals based on their skin color, religion, or gender. Regrettably, such prejudice does exist and individuals with body art face close scrutiny. It is not surprising that people feel uneasy about anything that diverges from their familiar norms.
We often tend to hastily criticize and have irrational thoughts about what these individuals must do to adjust their attitudes, but it is crucial for us to acknowledge that we, as individuals, have the responsibility to bring about this change.
Similar to a child who does not overcome their fear of dogs by being immersed in a cage filled with agitated canines, it is understandable why those without body art may perceive individuals with tattoos as scary.
If someone presents themselves in a manner that resembles a punk, criminal, or an ignorant and uneducated person through their appearance, behavior, and speech, it is natural for them to be seen as exactly that.
We all understand that tattoos serve as a means of self-expression.
Regardless of our lifestyle choices, it is essential for us to avoid excessive confidence or ego. We should recognize and nurture our appreciation for creativity and art without constantly becoming defensive. It is crucial not to assume that everyone will judge us, and if they do, we should not feel superior to them. Personally, I consciously remind myself of this every day, especially when my visible body art is showcased. For example, I once helped a woman by relocating a shopping cart blocking her parking spot.
In another instance, I displayed kindness by assisting an elderly man using a walker by holding the door open for him. More recently, I returned a wallet that had been accidentally left behind by its owner. Although these acts may appear ordinary, the expressions of pleasant surprise on the faces of those individuals clearly indicate their admiration. By surpassing expectations and demonstrating respect towards the body art community, I have earned a certain level of respect myself. It is actually the simplest action you can take wherever you go and whoever you encounter – share a smile. Through offering an authentic smile to others, it is inevitable that they will reciprocate with their own smile.
Dogs that walk around with wagging tails and hanging tongues are not frightening, just as a person with a wide smile does not raise suspicion or elicit fear of theft or harm towards your children. Many wealthy individuals, including doctors, lawyers, and other professionals, have tattoos. Having some body art does not indicate that a person is unruly or malicious.
Society must change its mindset towards tattoos. Having some body art does not automatically make someone a criminal or a loser. It is possible that someone with a tattoo could become someone you deeply care for or even come to admire. Who knows, someday, someone with a tattoo might even save your life. References: •Tattooarchive.com •Tattoojoy.com •Designboom.com •Bellaonline.com •Squidoo.com •Wikipedia.com
