An evaluation of the level of impulsiveness, risk-taking behaviors and empathy in persons with tattoos

<ns3:p>Over the past century, tattoos have transformed in societal perception, evolving from cultural taboo to glamorous and fashionable forms of self-expression. Consequently, historical stereotypes and prejudices surrounding tattoos require reevaluation. The vast diversity in tattoo designs, body locations, and attributed meanings underscores the importance of considering multiple factors when analyzing this phenomenon. This study aimed to examine the influence of impulsivity, risk-taking tendencies, and empathy on body modification practices associated with tattooing.An online survey was distributed on a tattoo-themed forum, recruiting 2,293 participants (237 men, average age 28.4 years; and 2,056 women, average age 25.88 years), all of whom had at least one tattoo. The participants shared their opinions about tattoos and completed the Eysenck IVE questionnaire, measuring three personality traits: impulsivity, risk-taking tendency, and empathy.Participants did not exhibit a strong inclination toward impulsive behavior overall. Tattooed men demonstrated a greater propensity for risk-taking behaviors, whereas women showed significantly higher levels of empathetic behaviors. Individuals getting tattoos outside professional studios were more impulsive compared to those opting for professional studios. Participants with higher education levels exhibited lower risk-taking tendencies and less impulsivity compared to those with medium education levels. Additionally, individuals with more than five tattoos were more prone to risk-taking, less empathetic compared to those with up to two tattoos, and more impulsive than those with only one tattoo.Impulsivity does not consistently correlate with an increased desire to take risks. Men are more inclined toward risk-taking behaviors compared to women. However, women display significantly higher empathetic behaviors. The Microgenetic Theory of the Self-System provides insight into these findings.</ns3:p>