Why People Modify Their Bodies

Curiosities
3 years ago

Nearly half of all adults have at least one tattoo and 11% of the population has at least one piercing (other than the earlobe). Besides that, several other types of body modification have been observed, like eye tattooing, subdermal implants, and tongue splitting. While some people prefer to not alter their body in any way, there are various scientific explanations as to why others choose to go through this.

Bright Side wanted to know the psychological reasons behind body modification and gathered this information so that you could understand it too.

1. It can release “feel-good” chemicals.

Every time someone modifies their body, endorphins are released and a positive feeling takes place. Because of that, people tend to remember the moment they’re getting pierced or tattooed as a happy time, and go and do it again.

2. It’s a form of art or fashion expression.

Some people use clothes or makeup, others use their own body. Tattoo artists are becoming more and more experienced in creating art on people’s skin, while piercings and other body modifications are often seen as a fashion accessory that complements the overall look.

3. It helps to create a sense of individuality.

Everyone is unique, but some people like to enhance this by making a one-of-a-kind modification on their bodies. They want to be special and distinguish themselves from others. This also helps them to create their own identities.

4. It can immortalize personal experiences.

It’s possible to use body modifications as a self-healing process. People who lost someone, who went through a traumatizing experience, or who want to immortalize a milestone often choose to mark these events on their skin and body.

5. It’s a tradition.

Some people view body modification as a spiritual awakening, an initiatory process. Some cultures also use it as a rite of passage from childhood to adulthood.

6. It shows physical tolerance.

We can see a lot of people who are trying to overcome pain, obstacles, and their overall personal limits, and body modifications are one of these movements. It proves courage and toughness.

7. It’s a way to belong to a group.

All humans want to belong to a certain social circle. Befriending someone who also likes to modify their bodies is one way of doing this. Some people even modify their bodies just to be included in a group, like rock stars.

8. It’s an impulsive act.

Not everyone that gets a piercing, a tattoo, or some other body modification does so after deep thinking and consideration. Some do it as a pure impulse. That’s why we see tattoos being covered up and even removed. In fact, 17% of inked people regret their tattoo and are thinking about removing it.

From what age do you think it’s ok to start getting piercings and tattoos? Do you have any? Why did you get them?

Preview photo credit Thescratchedvillain / reddit

Comments

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I once read online some good advice: if you want to get a tattoo, get a picture of it, put it on your wall, on your fridge, laptop wallpaper, phone etc... basically put it everywhere and wait about 3 or 4 weeks. If you still want to get that thing on your body you know you're good to go. I've done this with 3 desgins so far and still don't have a tattoo

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That's genius! My brother wants to get a new tattoo so I will recommend this to him!

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I think the fully blacked out eyes are super creepy... everyone has their preference and you can do what you want with your body that makes us unique

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They can actually damage your eye... they are very dangerous. Personally I am not a fan of neck or face tattoos, but each to their own. I have always had to be able to cover my tattoos up due to being a registered nurse.

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This was my second tattoo... in memory of my dad... his favourite flowers were poppies... definitely not impulse... or to fit in with a certain group... this was something I just really wanted to do... it took a few years of deliberation before I knew what I wanted.... and I love it ❤

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My third tattoo.... inspired by my favourite artist... Victoria Francès... it's not finished as this one is going to be a sleeve.... love my art.... an elderly gentleman stopped me in the supermarket (must have been in his 80's) and he said "my dear lady, I do not usually like tattoos on women however that is a work of art!" .... and he is right!!

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