Tattoos and Piercings: Issues of Body Modification and the Workplace

Summary:


 The vast increase in tattoos and piercings has caused conflicts in the workplace that has created an issue in the courts. Generally, discrimination in employment decisions based upon body modifications are not illegal, unless the person with the body modification is a member of a protected class, specifically  a religious class.
 Tattoos and body piercings- " described as a piercing anywhere in the body besides the soft spot of the earlobe (page 5),"- has become more common throughout the years.  The book talks about an article called "Tattoos now mainstream,(page6)" which discusses the legal aspects of hiring and employment decisions that can be hindered by any outspoken body modification. 
    Although tattooing has been around for centuries, the number of people who have permanently inked their body has increased  tremendously. "Life magazine estimated in 1936 that only 10% of the American population was tattooed in whole or in part." Now its hard to get a relatively precise number, due to how many people have them nowadays. 


Analysis:
 Tattoos and piercings are now a common thing to see among the newer generations. These visible body modifications is now hindering a person's ability to obtain a job, due to the outlandish nature. The only way around this rule, is to have a legitimate reason for the tattoo asides personal value, such as having a religious reason.  The discrimination of people with body modifications is legal, and is being fought over in the courts.


Reflection Questions:

• Do you believe someones ability to get a job should be hindered by body modifications?
• Should you be allowed to have tattoos or piercings at a workplace if you can hide them?
• What are your personal views on the discrimination on people with tattoos and piercings?

Donna, K. (2011). Tattoos and piercings: Issues of body modifications and the workplace. (76 ed., Vol. 1). Gale, Cengage Learning.