The psychodynamics of tattooing: a review

Abstract

The ancient art of tattooing has diverse meanings. In the South Seas archipelagos and in some Asian civilizations (India, Burma, and Japan) it has religious significance and is prized as a means of adornment. The intense pursuit of identity and autonomy that occurs during adolescence brings to the surface subconscious feelings, particularly of aggression and sexuality. These are often expressed by a rebellion against the standards of authority. A dramatic and indelible manner of expressing these conflicts is through symbols in tattooing. It is important for the pediatrician to explore the subconscious drives that govern the personality and behavior of his patients. An awareness and interpretation of what the patient is expressing through his tattoos aids in understanding the needs of the individual.

Q-switch laser and tattoo pigments: First results of the chemical and photophysical analysis of 41 compounds

“…Today tattooing in the Western world is considered to be a sign of self-destructive and rebellious behaviour [1]. Kilmer et al [2] estimated that approximately 10 million people in the United States have at least one decorative tattoo.…”

Attitudes of health care providers and students towards tattooed people

“…Adolescents who choose to be tattooed may get their first tattoo when they are as young as 10 ( Armstrong & McConnell 1994). Much earlier literature about tattooing among adolescents was based on substance abuse treatment programme and detention centers ( Burma 1959, Taylor 1968, Verberne 1969, Thomson & McDonald 1983, Fried 1983, Davies 1991, Farrow et al 1991 ). Findings from these studies suggested that tattooed adolescents were from a lower socioeconomic status and were involved in socially deviant behaviours and lifestyles.…”

Tattoo and taboo: On the meaning of tattoos in the analytic process

“…The implications of tattoos – conscious and unconscious alike – are multifaceted. Extensive historical, sociological, and psychological research delineates the significance tattoos have had for various peoples and contexts throughout the history of the phenomenon (Fried, 1983; Grumet, 1983; Kächelen, 2004; Oettermann, 1994; Rosenblum, 1999; Stirn, 2002). Interestingly, most of this research concerns itself almost exclusively with the conscious implications of tattooing practices – almost as if tattooing seductively invites a single‐minded focus on the conscious and the concrete.…”