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College students, tattoos, and sexual activity
Jerome R Koch1, Alden E Roberts, Myrna L Armstrong
1Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work Texas Tech University, Lubbock 79409, USA. jerome.koch@ttu.edu
Psychological Reports
|March 4, 2006
Summary
Tattooed college students are more likely to be sexually active than those without tattoos. This association was particularly noted in men, who also began sexual activity at a younger age.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Body art, such as tattoos, is increasingly prevalent among young adults.
- Understanding correlates of sexual behavior is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between body art (tattoos) and sexual activity in a college student population.
- To determine if tattoo status is associated with the initiation and prevalence of premarital sexual intercourse.
Main Methods:
- A convenience sample of 450 college students was surveyed.
- Data collected included information on tattoo status and sexual activity history.
Main Results:
- Tattooed respondents reported significantly higher rates of sexual activity compared to non-tattooed students.
- Tattooed men initiated sexual activity at a significantly younger age than their non-tattooed counterparts.
- No significant age difference in sexual initiation was observed between tattooed and non-tattooed college women.
Conclusions:
- Body art, specifically tattoos, is associated with increased sexual activity among college students.
- The findings suggest potential differences in behavioral patterns related to tattoos between genders.
- Further research is warranted to explore the underlying factors contributing to this association.