Self Expression Safely
Word Count: 313
Personal expression is a necessity to every individual, especially teenagers who are embarking on the journeys that allow them to figure out their own identities. Music, art, and many other things can serve as ways to express oneself. More permanent options such as tattoos or piercings are also very expressive ways of stylizing oneself or showing different characteristics. Seeing as personal expression is so key to a teenager’s life, it is reasonable to question if receiving tattoos or piercings are the best option.
As mentioned previously, tattoos and piercings are an alternative and specialized way of self expression, but most importantly they are permanent. Teenagers maturing, going through different phases and trends is anything but permanent in comparison. Feelings and opinions on different styles may change within a matter of weeks. Should teenagers be allowed to choose whether or not they want to get tattoos or piercings if they’re maturity level plays such an important role?
It is also important to take into consideration a teenager’s status. Teenagers are still technically children, despite being young adults. Parents or guardians are therefore liable and responsible for their health. The possibility their child undergoes a botched procedure is undoubtedly increased when parental knowledge isn’t required.
There are many less permanent ways of self expression that serve as equally effective alternatives. Ranging from temporary tattoos, dyed hair, or clip on piercings, teenagers can test out what they like best instead of being permanently stuck with something.
Parents and teenagers should aim to have conversations regarding self expression. Mutual compromises that prioritize the teenager’s needs or wants with their safety being prioritized ensures a beneficial outcome for all. Until the teenager is legally of age (18), it is up to a discussed agreement between teenagers and their parents on whether or not it is acceptable or in their best interests to pursue a permanent tattoo or piercing.
I agree with you but also teenagers should be allowed to get tattoos and piercings depending on their level of maturity and if they're actually going to like it. In a few years maybe they will regret their decision but that's going fall back on them and piercing holes can close up and you can get tattoos removed. I personally would get neither because I'm scared of needles.
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