Tattoo your 'self' for me : a qualitative study exploring relationship between having a tattoo and the development of the self in young Maltese individuals

Abstract

This study sought to explore the impact of tattooing on the construction of identity, adopting a symbolic interactionist approach. The research questions examined how tattoos contribute to the development of the self and its components. Motivations for tattooing were explored respectively. Recent tattooing boom indicated need of extensive psychological research in this field, utilising grounded theory approach to develop new theories on identity. Six in depth interviews were conducted with young Maltese individuals. The data analysis suggested that the self develops through body modifications in a series of steps, embodying identity into physical appearance through internalisation of reflected appraisal. Motivations for tattooing were found to be intrinsic as well as extrinsic. Concept of the tattooing career as a process also emerged from the data. Advancement of the self through tattooing is consistent with psychological findings on identity development and the concept of a career. Suggestions for further research and implications were explored.