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A survey of soldiers' attitudes to tattooing
1Garrison Medical Centre, Larkhill, Salisbury, Wiltshire.
Insights
Many soldiers get tattoos, with younger individuals more likely to have homemade ones influenced by peers. A significant percentage of tattooed soldiers, especially older ones, regret their decisions, highlighting the need for education.
Area of Science:
- Military Medicine
- Dermatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Skin tattoos are prevalent in various populations, including military personnel.
- Understanding the motivations and outcomes associated with tattooing is crucial for health and well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of skin tattoos among soldiers at Garrison Medical Centre, Larkhill.
- To explore factors influencing tattoo acquisition, including artist type and peer pressure.
- To assess the rate of regret among tattooed soldiers and identify associated demographic factors.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire-based study was conducted with 450 male soldiers.
- Data collected included tattoo status, origin of tattoos, influencing factors, and regret.
- Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant associations.
Main Results:
- Overall, 44% of soldiers reported having tattoos.
- The majority (85.7%) of tattoos were obtained from recognized artists in the UK.
- Younger soldiers showed a higher incidence of 'home-made' tattoos, with peer pressure being a significant influence.
- 31.1% of tattooed soldiers regretted their tattoos, a figure rising to 44.6% in those over 26 years old.
Conclusions:
- Tattoo prevalence is substantial within the studied military population.
- Peer influence and age are key factors in tattoo acquisition and subsequent regret.
- Increased educational initiatives are recommended to inform young soldiers about the long-term implications of tattooing.
Abstract:
A study was performed at the Garrison Medical Centre, Larkhill to assess the incidence of skin tattoos in a sample of soldiers. The soldiers were questioned with the aim of establishing where they had had their tattoos done, identifying any factors involved in becoming tattooed and assessing what proportion later regretted their actions. The study included 450 male soldiers. Assessment was by a questionnaire completed in the medical centre waiting room. Overall 44% of the soldiers questioned were tattooed. Most (85.7%) had had tattoos done by recognised artists in the United Kingdom. Younger soldiers had a significantly higher incidence of 'home made' tattoos. Peer pressure was identified as an important influence on the decision to become tattooed. 31.1% of tattooed soldiers regretted their tattoos. This figure rose to 44.6% in those over 26 years old. The author advocates increased education to encourage the young soldier to think hard about its implications before becoming tattooed.