The importance of tattoos for young men and girls aged 14 to 20

The article presents the results of study of the tattoos perception by modern youth. The motives that induce young people to change their appearance through tattooing are discussed. The research involved 342 people - girls and boys from different regions of Russia aged 14 to 20. It is revealed that a tattoo is not perceived by young people as a sign of belonging to any subgroup or subculture. It is a way of self-expression, self-determination and self-knowledge. In addition, the importance of the aesthetic component of the tattoo is noted (how it looks on one's skin, adds attractiveness, hides defects). The results of the study can be used in psychological counseling of adolescents, youth, parents, as well as in the development of recommendations for conducting professional and psychological selection in universities of the force structures of the country.