While researchers try to piece together the psychology of why some people get tattoos, social media has recently fixated on the opposite, too. Several social media posts about the psychology of a lack of tattoos went viral. But what does the real research suggest?
A seemingly AI-generated TikTok by @marlemyeuoo shows a man in scrubs discussing a few hypotheses on why some people might avoid getting inked up.
The video first suggests it could be due to the idea of “future self continuity,” or the desire to feel like the same person you are today years down the road. It suggests that adding a tattoo to the mix could create a separation between present and future you. However, there’s no research connecting the idea directly to a lack of tattoos.
The TikTok also points out more obvious reasons someone may avoid getting inked, such as maintaining a stereotypically “professional” appearance or for spiritual reasons.
What Does Real Research Say About No Tattoos?
There’s a lack of legitimate research into why people don’t get tattooed. However, the recent explosion of content on social media speculating about the topic suggests many users want to know why. Research into tattoo regret could provide clues.
One 2022 study by the Indian Journal of Dermatology suggests that up to 44% of people with a tattoo regret at least one of them. The likelihood of experiencing tattoo regret later in life could be one reason some people choose not to get inked in the first place.
Job prospects could also prevent some from heading to the tattoo shop, even if they like the look of ink. The Princeton Legal Journal points out that it’s legal for companies to discriminate against people with tattoos because it’s not a protected identity or practice.
Why Don’t Viewers Get Inked?
In the comments of the TikTok, viewers shared their personal reasons for not getting tattooed.
“A lot of my friends that have tattoos regret getting them. I’m not going to do that to my body. I don’t want anything on it that I can’t take off. Plus, there’s other things I’d rather do with my money,” one explained.
Another shared, “51 here and zero tattoos because it’s look painful plus they change as you age.”
“I’ve never regretted not getting a tattoo. I have numerous friends who have regretted getting them. That’s my final answer,” a third added.
Others shared more humorous explanations for keeping their skin ink-free.
“You don’t put bumper stickers on Ferraris,” a commenter remarked.
“It is like choosing a single hairstyle for the rest of your life,” a second joked.
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BroBible reached out to @marlemyeuoo via TikTok direct message. We will update the story when they reply.