Student teachers' perceptions of tattoos and their sociocultural impacts

Abstract

This qualitative research explored the motivations and meanings behind tattoos in normal students of the Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education. The sample consisted of 18 students (10 men and 8 women) selected through intentional non-probabilistic sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and photographs of the tattoos were taken. Data analysis was performed using Atlas.ti® software. The results revealed four main categories: motivation by influence of family or friends, personal meaning, fashion or trend, and search for identity or self-affirmation. In addition, participants expressed feeling rejected and socially stigmatized for having tattoos, worrying about discrimination in basic education schools during their professional practices, due to comments from parents and accusations from children. The research highlights that tattoos are an important form of personal and artistic expression, and underlines the need for greater acceptance and understanding in educational contexts.