SOCS 185 Week 3 Discussion: Conformity and Deviance

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Chamberlain University

SOCS-185 Culture & Society

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The Evolution of Tattoos: From Social Deviance to Modern Acceptance

Tattoos have long been a subject of debate in society, often viewed as a form of deviance. Over time, however, perceptions of tattoos have shifted significantly. What was once considered a rebellious or even criminal act is now increasingly seen as a personal expression of identity. This article will explore the history of tattoos, how societal views on them have evolved, and the theories of deviance that best explain this transformation.

The Origins of Tattoos and Early Perceptions

Tattoos have existed for centuries, with historical roots in tribal cultures where they often symbolized strength, spiritual beliefs, or social status. In many ancient societies, tattoos were considered sacred and held deep cultural significance. However, as tattoos began to spread into Western culture, societal views shifted.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, tattoos were largely frowned upon in Western society. People with tattoos were often seen as outcasts, criminals, or members of the lower class. The idea of permanently marking one’s body was considered reckless, and tattoos were linked to deviant behavior. This perception persisted for decades, with many people viewing tattoos as a sign of rebellion against societal norms.

Tattoos in Modern Society: A Shift in Perception

In recent years, tattoos have undergone a dramatic transformation in terms of public perception. What was once viewed as a mark of deviance is now seen as a form of self-expression. According to sociologist Matthew Weimer (2017), tattoos have evolved into a way for individuals to showcase their personalities, interests, and experiences through ink. The widespread acceptance of tattoos in today’s society is evident, with many people, regardless of age or profession, choosing to get tattooed.

While some individuals and cultures still hold negative views of tattoos, the stigma surrounding them has significantly lessened. This shift can be attributed to various factors, including the rise of tattoo culture in popular media, celebrity influence, and the increasing professionalism within the tattoo industry. Today, it is not uncommon to see people in all walks of life, from business professionals to athletes, proudly displaying their tattoos.

Theories of Deviance: Understanding the Change in Perspective

To better understand the changing attitudes towards tattoos, it is useful to examine them through the lens of sociological theories of deviance. Rational Choice Theory offers a compelling explanation for why individuals choose to get tattoos despite the lingering stigma associated with them. According to this theory, people weigh the risks and benefits before engaging in behavior that might be considered deviant. In the case of tattoos, individuals may consider factors such as societal disapproval, potential career consequences, or the permanence of the decision. However, the personal rewards—self-expression, individuality, and belonging to a community—often outweigh the perceived risks.

Labeling Theory is another useful framework for understanding how societal views of tattoos have shifted over time. This theory suggests that deviance is not inherent in an act but is instead determined by societal reaction. In the past, society labeled tattoos as deviant, associating them with criminals and rebellious subcultures. As tattoos became more popular and accepted in mainstream culture, the label of deviance began to fade. Today, tattoos are seen as a legitimate form of art and personal expression, rather than a mark of deviance.

The acceptance of tattoos in modern society also speaks to the concept of social control. Social control refers to the ways in which society regulates behavior to conform to norms and values. In the past, strict societal norms discouraged people from getting tattoos, as doing so would have resulted in social exclusion or judgment. However, as societal norms have evolved, so too has the level of control exerted over individuals’ choices regarding their bodies.

The availability of tattoo removal technology further illustrates this concept. In the past, the permanence of tattoos was a key factor in their association with deviance. However, with modern advancements in laser removal, people now have the option to erase tattoos, reducing the risk of long-term social or professional consequences. This technological advancement has played a role in the broader acceptance of tattoos by mitigating the sense of permanence that once made them controversial.

The Cultural Significance of Tattoos Today

Despite the growing acceptance of tattoos, their cultural significance has not diminished. In fact, tattoos continue to carry deep personal meaning for many individuals. For some, tattoos serve as markers of important life events, memories, or beliefs. For others, they represent a connection to a particular community or subculture. Tattoos can be seen as a way to reclaim autonomy over one’s body, especially in a world where societal expectations about appearance often impose restrictions.

Tattoos have also become a powerful form of artistic expression, with many talented tattoo artists gaining recognition for their work. As the art form has grown in complexity and skill, tattoos have garnered more respect as a legitimate medium for creative expression. This shift has helped to further normalize tattoos in the eyes of society.

Conclusion:

The perception of tattoos has come a long way from their early association with deviance and rebellion. Today, tattoos are largely accepted as a form of personal expression, with many people embracing them as a way to showcase their individuality. While some stigma still exists, especially in certain professional settings, tattoos have become mainstream and are no longer viewed as inherently deviant.

This shift in societal attitudes can be explained through theories of deviance such as Rational Choice Theory and Labeling Theory, which highlight the role of individual decision-making and societal labeling in shaping perceptions. As tattoos continue to gain acceptance, it is clear that they have become an integral part of modern culture, reflecting the evolving nature of social norms and personal identity.

References

Weimer, M. (2017, May 9). Tattoos in Society: A Progression of Acceptance. Matthew Weimer. https://multimedia.jmc.uiowa.edu/weimr/2017/05/09/tattoos-in-society-aprogression-of-acceptance/. Kendall, D. (2018). Sociology in our times: The essentials (11th ed). Boston: Cengage Learning.