Tattoos have been a part of society and individual expression throughout most cultures for centuries. They have represented different social positions and attitudes and sometimes they are a symbol of power and respected position while other times they are not well received or approved of by society at large. In the United States they have had an interesting social role development and in recent decades have seen the greatest shift toward mainstream popularity and acceptance.
In previous decades they have pretty much been the domain of bikers, rock stars and outlaws and members of mainstream society have not embraced tattoos on regular people though they have often glamorized them as part of the counter cultural revolution. However, these days tattoos are increasingly popular with people from all demographics and it has become common to see them displayed prominently in public where they used to be covered for the most part. Also, the art of body painting, which sometimes includes tattoos has increased interest in exhibiting artistic expressions on one’s skin. And the art of tattoo making itself has changed a great deal and many tattoo artists are well respected and have become something of social icons in their own right.
All of these changes in style, attitudes and technology makes the question of getting a tattoo much different today than it was decades ago. Tattoos were more of a rebellious act, or certainly could be than they are today. Generally young people and others who are considering getting a tattoo more concerned with aesthetics than social rebellion though once again it can still be part of it. Ultimately, it is essential to remember that the tattoo will be going on your body and it is your decision if you will get one and what it will be. You are the one that has to live with the decision and celebrate the beautiful piece of art that rests on your skin or potentially regret a permanent image that you no longer associate with. If you are of age to make your own decision that remember that it is entirely yours to make and no one else can decide it for you.
