A phenomenological view at the stigmatization of visibly tattooed individuals in the workplace

Abstract

This thesis explores the world of the visibly tattooed individual from their own vantage point, particularly in the work environment and whether, as well as how, tattoos have affected their career prospects in terms of being hired and promoted. Accordingly, I will examine how an image or symbol that is visible on the skin can have different perceptions by management and how it is perceived by, and effects, those with visible tattoos in the workplace. My goal is to ensure that non-tattooed individuals are able to understand that tattoos are more than just ink on the skin to be judged, particularly by those holding power in the workplace. From the standpoint of a heavily, visibly tattooed mothers, women and students I have a firsthand view of the difficulty society places on visibly tattooed people. Utilizing field research via a qualitative approach, I conducted and analyzed thirteen interviews. Utilizing interviews this enabled me to capture the experiences of participants whether management at a workplace, or visibly tattooed employees. Results indicate that tattoos have recently become more accepted to a certain degree, dependent on several factors, including the fine line between an individual who has a few visible tattoos and others who have what I have labelled ‘body projects.’ I conclude that stigma and judgment in the workplace are very much alive for tattooed individuals and will continue to affect their job prospects in the short-term.