FACTORS AFFECTING THE DECISION TO ACQUIRE TATTOOS AND OTHER BODY ART

Joyce McGriff Tammy Prater Sara Bliss Kiser

Alabama State University

ABSTRACT

Young adults are, in their spirit of independence, increasingly making the decision to get tattoos and other body art (TOBA). This study investigates the degree to which group and external influences play a role in the decision making process to acquire tattoos and other body art and if susceptibility to influence mattered in the process. The attitudes toward tattoos and other body art and their relationship to having regrets about the decision to acquire tattoos and other body art were examined. Preliminary findings reveal that even though there is independence in the actual choice and purchase of TOBA, there are both external and internal influences and feelings related to whether one regretted acquiring their tattoo or other body art. The study covered sources and susceptibility of influence and attitude toward tattoos and other body art.