SOCS 185 Week 3 Discussion: Conformity and Deviance

Grace J.
August 7, 2025August 7, 2025
CU BSN, SOCS-185

Student Name

Chamberlain University

SOCS-185 Culture and Society

Prof. Name

Date

Week 3 Discussion: Conformity and Deviance

Required Resources

Textbook: Sociology in Our Times: The Essentials (Chapters 5 and 6)
Lesson Content
At least one external scholarly source

Option 2: Analyzing the Deviance of Tattoos in Society

Why Does Society View Tattooing as Deviant Behavior?

Tattooing, though now widely accepted, was historically categorized as deviant behavior, particularly in Western cultures. Societal perceptions of tattoos have shifted dramatically over time. Previously, tattoos were frequently associated with rebellion, criminality, or non-conformity. This negative outlook stemmed largely from the permanence of body modification and its connections to marginalized or tribal groups. According to Kendall (2018), society has traditionally labeled individuals with tattoos as deviant due to prevailing norms regarding bodily purity and aesthetics.

The underlying concern has always revolved around tattoos being “permanent marks” on the body, which many viewed as a violation of socially acceptable appearance standards. This stigma made people with visible tattoos vulnerable to employment discrimination and social ostracization.

How Have Societal Perceptions of Tattoos Changed Over Time?

Over the decades, public opinion has transformed significantly. What was once frowned upon has become mainstream. Tattoos are now recognized as a form of personal identity, storytelling, and cultural expression. The tattoo industry has evolved with improved techniques, safer procedures, and widespread representation in media, leading to a gradual destigmatization.

Millennials and Gen Z have played a critical role in the normalization of tattoos. Today, professionals in various fields, including educators, medical personnel, and corporate executives, openly display tattoos. As Weimer (2017) points out, this generational shift has pushed the boundary of acceptance, where tattoos now symbolize individuality rather than deviance.

Table 1: Societal Perception of Tattoos – Then vs. Now

Aspect	Past Perception	Current Perception
Social Norms	Seen as rebellious or inappropriate	Viewed as self-expression and art
Cultural Associations	Linked to gangs, sailors, or prison culture	Associated with fashion, identity, and meaning
Employment Opportunities	Tattooed individuals often faced bias or hiring discrimination	Many workplaces now accept or ignore tattoos
Demographics	Mostly men in fringe groups	All genders, across age groups and professions
Technological Advancement	Basic methods, more pain, fewer designs	Sophisticated equipment, diverse artistic options

What Theory of Deviance Best Explains Tattooing?

Among various sociological perspectives, the Rational Choice Theory of deviance best explains the behavior of individuals who choose to get tattoos. This theory posits that people consciously weigh the pros and cons before engaging in behavior that may be labeled as deviant (Kendall, 2018). In the context of tattooing, individuals evaluate the personal satisfaction, identity representation, cultural value, and social risks associated with getting inked.

For example, someone contemplating a tattoo may consider how it could affect job prospects or family acceptance. If the perceived benefits, such as emotional significance or aesthetic value, outweigh the risks, the person proceeds. This decision-making process aligns with the theory’s emphasis on rational evaluation of outcomes.

Personal Reflection: Tattoos in My Environment

Having grown up in a household where tattoos were prevalent, my view of them was largely positive. My father has had extensive tattoo work since my early childhood, and my mother began getting tattoos during my teenage years. These early exposures shaped my appreciation for tattoos as a meaningful form of self-expression rather than deviance.

When I turned 18 and it became legally permissible to get a tattoo, I embraced the opportunity enthusiastically. The decision was not impulsive; it involved deliberate thought about the design, placement, and future implications. This personal example reinforces the rational choice approach—evaluating long-term impact before taking action.

Are Tattoos Still Viewed as Deviant?

While tattoos are far more accepted today, they are not entirely free from stigma. Certain conservative cultures, traditional workplaces, or religious groups still associate tattoos with disrespect or immorality. Furthermore, tattoos on specific body parts (e.g., face, neck, or hands) may continue to draw judgment. Also, older generations tend to carry lingering biases, which highlights that societal change is ongoing and not uniform.

Nonetheless, it is undeniable that tattoos have transitioned from being taboo to a common, and often celebrated, element of contemporary culture. They are now part of the broader conversation about body autonomy and creative freedom.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tattooing represents a fascinating example of how deviance is a socially constructed concept that evolves with time. From tribal traditions to modern self-expression, tattoos have traveled a long path toward normalization. The Rational Choice Theory effectively explains the decision-making process behind tattooing, revealing that what may be viewed as deviant by some is a rational and expressive choice for others. Understanding such shifts helps us appreciate the fluidity of societal norms and the power of individual agency.

References

Kendall, D. (2018). Sociology in our times: The essentials (11th ed.). Boston: Cengage Learning.