The word “addiction” is often associated, nowadays, with getting tattoos. Some people say that the drive to acquire body art is addictive, while others say it fails to meet the true definition of an addiction, stating that it is a true passion.

This debate calls into question the very nature of addiction. Are addictions psychological or must it contain a physiological element of chemical dependence? When it comes to the art of tattoos, there are several psychological, physiological and even social elements which could contribute to an addiction. Through a combination of personal experience and research, I have listed some physical, mental and situational attributes of the world of tattooing, our generation’s newest ‘addiction.’

Adrenaline
For most people tattoos are a form of personal expression. The reasons for getting a tattoo varies as much from person to person as the images they choose. However the scientific process the body undergoes during the process is basically the same. One third of the human nervous system is known as the “Sympathetic Nervous System” this is the part responsible for triggering the fight-or-flight response, which includes releasing adrenaline in response to pain.

Endorphins
Unlike adrenaline, which is produced in the renal glands, endorphins flood the body directly from the brain. These chemicals produced in the pituitary gland are our natural pain relievers. That’s why, while getting a tattoo, endorphins flood the body in response to the pain caused by the needles. The effects of endorphins, powerful, they are also associated with other activities that create a natural “high” like exercise and orgasms. The force of this chemical reaction can lead to an increased drive and even an addiction to getting tattoos in order to repeat the experience, and receive another dose of endorphins.

Self Expression/Freedom
The vast majority of people who have body art will tell you that for them it is a form of self expression. Each tattoo has a meaning which is significant to the person who has it. Regardless of the intent behind the ink, the owner finds it possible to use artwork on their bodies as a satisfying way of expressing who they believe themselves to be on this inside. No one understands this as much as someone who has a tattoo, or many tattoos for that matter. Some tattoos might represent something that you believe it, or might honor a deceased family member or friend. Whatever the reasoning may be, it feels good to express your thoughts and feelings on your body in a truly beautiful art form, such as a tattoo.

Tattoo Culture
Though perhaps not inclusive of everyone who bears body ink, a thriving tattoo culture does exist. Many people who have multiple tattoos may perceive their ink to be one of the defining elements of their identity and these individuals comprise a sub-culture within society. The desire to belong to a community, particularly if an individual were to feel detested by others, could in its own way contribute to feelings of being addicted to tattoos. One might find themselves driven to continue expanding their collection of body art as a method of repeated dedication, or induction to the tattoo culture.

Therapy
We all have vices, coping mechanisms, ways to deal with our own negative feelings, however, they might manifest themselves. Could tattoos be considered a form of therapy? For some people a tattoo holds far deeper meaning than just self-expression. They can be a way of attempting to undo past wrongs or a means purging negative emotions. For a person reluctant to pursue more traditional forms of therapy, or lacking in a personal support system, the therapeutic qualities of body modification, such as tattoos, could become a compelling substitute.