Tattooed individuals in the service industry.

Abstract

This research paper examines the link between tattooed individuals and their employability within the service industry in Singapore. With surveys collected from 65 members of the public, as well as 13 interviews with both tattoo artists and tattooed individuals, a two-tiered social perspective is revealed, where young Singaporeans no longer view tattooed individuals negatively but the older generation still stereotypes them. Although a general shift from the old deviant associations is observed, and tattoos have become more accepted and viewed as an artistic expression of individualism in the Singapore society, they are still frowned upon in service sectors that cater to the mature conservative customers. The role of media platforms has been studied as a crucial factor in influencing how mindsets towards tattoos are being shaped, in which my research shows local traditional media platforms to be responsible for the stagnated attitude held by older Singaporeans.