Personality differences between tattooed and non-tattooed individuals.
Viren Swami1, Jakob Pietschnig, Bianca Bertl
1Department of Psychology, University of Westminster, London, UK.
Psychological Reports
|October 11, 2012
Summary
Tattooed individuals exhibit higher scores in Extraversion, Experience Seeking, and Need for Uniqueness compared to non-tattooed individuals. This study explores personality differences related to tattoo possession.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Tattooing is increasingly prevalent in modern societies.
- Understanding the psychological correlates of tattoo possession is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate personality and individual difference variations between tattooed and non-tattooed individuals.
- To examine the relationship between tattoo ownership and psychological traits.
Main Methods:
- A community sample of 540 individuals completed a survey.
- Measures included Big Five personality factors, Need for Uniqueness, Self-esteem, sensation seeking, Religious and Spiritual Beliefs, and Attitudes Toward Tattoos.
- Demographic data and tattoo possession were recorded.
Main Results:
- 22% of the sample reported having at least one tattoo.
- Tattooed individuals (n=120) showed significantly higher Extraversion, Experience Seeking, and Need for Uniqueness compared to non-tattooed individuals (n=420).
- Tattooed participants also held more positive Attitudes Toward Tattoos, with small- to medium-sized effect sizes.
Conclusions:
- Tattoo possession is associated with specific personality traits, including higher extraversion and a greater need for uniqueness.
- These findings contribute to understanding the psychological profile of tattooed individuals in contemporary societies.
- The study highlights the need for further research into the motivations and psychological underpinnings of body art.
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