Tattoos in the Workplace

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not
individuals with tattoos were looked down upon in their chosen
profession simply based on tattoo presence. Specifically, it was
hypothesized that there is a stigma attached to individuals with
tattoos in the workplace in comparison to non-tattooed employees.
Previous research has looked at the attitudes toward tattooed
individuals based on style, gender, and size, yet little research has
been done to understand the attitudes toward people with tattoos
in the workplace. This study sought to determine if stigmas are
placed on individuals with tattoos. To do so, the appropriateness
of tattoos in various white and blue collar professions was
measured. In addition, the size and visibility of the tattoos were
factors in determining attitudes. Although tattoos are becoming
more socially acceptable, different traits are still being associated
with tattoos. Various personality and physical characteristics of
individuals with tattoos were addressed to understand if character
is being judged based on body ink. Overall, the results of this
study found no differences in attitudes toward individuals with
tattoos in the workplace compared to non-tattooed employees.
However, the perceived personal traits of tattooed and nontattooed
individuals varied.