Why People Get Tattoos: The Psychology Behind It

Getting a tattoo has become popular in India over the years. From being linked to specific tribes or religious groups, tattoos have become today a way of expressing one’s individuality, artistic abilities, and even defiance. It has become a trend for everyone, children to adults, to visit tattoo studios and have their skin etched with certain symbols, names, quotes, or even complex designs. Nevertheless, do you ever think about why people go in for tattoos? Is it just the fashion, or are there some other reasons which can explain such a decision? 

Surprisingly, the story – why people decide to get a tattoo – is different in each case. Some do it to mark important events in their lives or people they care for, some others to be able to portray their character or principles. Many people believe that tattoos are a way to demonstrate their rights or, at least, individuality in a group. It is because of this diversity in motivation that the art of tattooing is not just skin deep; it also reveals and reflects the wearer’s thought process, feelings, and experiences. 

For people in India, getting inked is easy these days since there are lots of studios opening in every possible city. Many individuals search for “tattoo price list in India” before they get inked as the prices differ with regards to size and colours involved in the design. 

Self-Expression and Identity

Self Expressing is probably the most widely cited reason why people have tattoos. For many a tattoo is not just an artwork on the skin but a part of their personality. It becomes a form of expressing what they stand for, or believe in and what they are passionate about. There are some who might get something like a quote or a symbol that they find highly significant in their lives; there are others who get designs that are unique to them.

For instance, a nature lover would prefer to have a tree, bird, or flower inked on his skin. Likewise, an individual who is highly religious may go for spiritual symbols such as Om, a cross, or a mantra. Tattoos, in turn, help individuals to actually wear their identity and values as if they were a badge of sorts. To them it is not a fashion or a trend to follow; it is about wearing something that shows how they feel (or think) – literally, a heart on a sleeve.

Marking Life Milestones

A common reason why people opt for tattoos is to commemorate important events in their lifetime. These can be any moment in life that can be good, such as – the birth of a child or a wedding, and can also be the challenging part of life. In this way, tattoos serve as permanent symbols of these moments – helping the people feel related to the past. 

For example, people get tattoos to symbolise the memory of a deceased family member. It assists people to be able to hold on to a part of that person for eternity, in their lives. Likewise, couples might consider getting the matching tattoos on a specific anniversary or when they reach a significant milestone in their relationships.

A Tool for Healing and Transformation

Individuals tend to get tattooed as a way of overcoming some sort of emotional distress or past painful incidents. In such cases, the process of getting a tattoo can be empowering, to regain control over the body and the story it tells. 

Individuals can have tattoos to cover a scar or just an unpleasant memory, turning their skin into something they can be proud of rather than avoid. One often comes across people who want to tattoo after surviving a life-threatening disease or accident. 

A Sense of Belonging

Tattoos can also help individuals feel connected to certain communities or groups. When getting a tattoo that represents a culture or religion or even when two people decide to get matching tattoos with a group of friends, people feel like they belong. 

Now, everyone can find friends with similar tastes and with whom it is possible to communicate, using tattoos. For instance, a group of people who like a certain band or sports team, or even the fans of a certain show, may decide to have group tattoos to show their support to the group. Likewise in the military or law enforcement, tattoos may be used to symbolise the camaraderie of fellow mates.

Rebellion and Defiance

For some, getting a tattoo is rebellion to a certain extent. It can be used as a rebellion against what society or the family wants. This is especially true in a society such as India, where, until recently, tattoos were restricted to certain communities, and people in the middle and upper classes did not usually get tattooed.

Final Thoughts

Tattoo culture in India is on the rise, and the purpose of having these tattoos is also changing with time. While some people consider it a form of identity, others regard it as a mere trend. 
If you consider getting a tattoo, it is worthwhile to consider not only the design but also the price. For instance, the tattoo cost in Delhi may start from INR 1000 for simple, small, intricate designs, whereas large or complex tattoos may cost exorbitant prices depending on the artist’s skill and the size and design of the tattoo.