While it is a valid theory that getting tattoos may be a way of self mutilation, there are also many other reasons for getting a tattoo or piercing. These range from fitting in and looking cool to your peers, to showing which gang you're in and if you've ever killed someone (as tattoos above the neck would normally imply)

I also have to speculate whether tattooing when affiliated with depression and antisocial behavior is actually self mutilation, or simply a front to be put up; a sort of mask of strength to make people think you're okay.

And, while we're on the subject, things such as branding and scarification are often justified as artistic expression, but are quite painful--scarification is said to be much more painful than tattoos--and one must wonder if one of the things that are so alluring to people who go though these procedures is, in fact the promise of pain.

and I wonder about the practice of self-flagellation and scarification that some consider a form of religious devotion...

This has become a rather intriguing subject matter for me, and I do believe you have inspired what I'm going to do for my senior project.

My utmost thanks to you, Dr. Rubin.

what are you planning for your senior project?

This is an interesting topic and I've considered it as well. Over the years I have had a few facial piercings (and after years of having them all removed, I got two piercings earlier this year). When I got the piercings and also when I've talked with my mom about other people getting tattoos, my mom has has wondered why I or anyone else would want to mutilate their body like that. I told her that I think some people view their body as a canvas and see themselves as decorating that canvas.

That being said, I do see things like the person in the photo above whose face has been "transformed" into a skeleton and I wonder where is the line between art and self-mutilation.

I can say that while I have enjoyed having various piercings, I find nothing pleasant about the experience of being pierced. But occasionally, the desire to have a piercing is enough for me to get over my apprehension of the piercing process.

On the other hand, I've known people who have said that they enjoy the process of getting tattooed. I even have a friend who not only has a lot of tattoos but has scarification in a couple places - all of which have spiritual significance to her.

All this to say, I can't give an answer. I think there is a different motivation for different people.

I have 3 tattoos and 1 piercing (other than ears). I personally do not feel of it as self-mutilation. Ear piercing has been common for a long time. When my mom asked about the tattoos I told her it was like permanent jewelry. I was very careful in my choice of tattoos to make sure it was something that really depicted what I am about and that they were something I could live with forever. And my tattoos can be covered up when I need to dress professionally.

However I do believe that there are some people who are getting tattoos and piercings as self-mutilation. It depends on the mind-set of the person. In fact an old friend once admitted that as a teen they were a cutter and as an adult, when they felt that urge, they would get a tattoo instead.

I think you're assessment is right on; the issue of self-mutilation should be determined on an individual basis...your own decisions were reasoned out....

i think there is nothing wrong with tattoos and peircings. it all depends on were u are coming from and what u believe in.

you make a great point