International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)
Beyond Skin Deep: Exploring the Motivations, Stigma, and Cultural Significance of Tattoos in the Professional World
Published December 3, 2025 • Vol. 9, Issue 11, pp. 1983–1999Open Access
DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS.2025.91100160
Abstract
This study explores the reasons people get tattooed, the lingering societal prejudice regarding body art, and its impact on careers in the Philippines. Applying a phenomenological framework, data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews and online surveys with professionals who have tattoos, human resource (HR) practitioners, as well as college students. Results indicate that while younger individuals perceive tattoos more as self-expression than ever before, professional stigma is still highly prevalent in conservative sectors. This research rests on Andrea Salvini's (2010) Symbolic Interaction Theory, Mitchell Green's (2010) Self-Expression Theory, and Link and Phelan’s (2001) Theory of Stigma. Thus far, the study has led to the creation of an awareness magazine “INKclusivity” which aims at promoting inclusivity within work environments.
Keywords: Philippine Culture
| Journal | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) |
|---|---|
| ISSN | 2454-6186 |
| Volume / Issue | Volume 9, Issue 11 |
| Pages | 1983–1999 |
| Publication date | December 3, 2025 |
| DOI | 10.47772/IJRISS.2025.91100160 |
| Publisher | RSIS International |
| License | Open Access |
How to cite this article
Nelia A. Britanico, Christopher A. Britanico, Kurt Sid Marione P. Estrebillo Bill, & Christian A. Escuro (2025). Beyond Skin Deep: Exploring the Motivations, Stigma, and Cultural Significance of Tattoos in the Professional World. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 9(11), 1983-1999. https://doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.91100160
BibTeX
@article{Nelia2025,
title = {Beyond Skin Deep: Exploring the Motivations, Stigma, and Cultural Significance of Tattoos in the Professional World},
author = {Nelia A. Britanico and Christopher A. Britanico and Kurt Sid Marione P. Estrebillo Bill and Christian A. Escuro},
journal = {International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)},
volume = {9},
number = {11},
pages = {1983--1999},
year = {2025},
doi = {10.47772/IJRISS.2025.91100160},
publisher = {RSIS International}
}