The entry into adolescence of children is one of the greatest challenges that parents must face. Mainly because it represents the stage of rebellion par excellence and because they begin to shape their personality, as well as establish their tastes and opinions. And these are often very different or even opposite to those of their parents. One of the issues that generates the most conflict in families is when minors want to have a very large or even permanent body modification, such as piercings or the popular tattoos.
Parents may feel at a loss when it comes to how to act if their children want to get a piercing or tattoo and they are against it, due to their young age. The reasons that lead them to want to make this type of modification usually have to do with trends, with the intention of feeling part of a group or, on the contrary, as a way of differentiating themselves from the rest.
Although children gradually shape their personality and differentiating traits throughout their growth, it is during adolescence when the importance of body image truly arises. During this period, minors are in search of their own identity, in addition, they want to express it and show it to others. It is a reaffirmation tool. This can be through their type of hairstyle, the style of clothing they wear, or even the brands they prefer. And this also includes piercings and tattoos.
The worst thing that parents can do when asked by their teenager to get a tattoo or piercing is to respond with a resounding no, that is, a non-negotiable prohibition. Since in this way only two answers will be achieved: the first, to stimulate a feeling of need to contradict the parents on the part of the minor; the second, that they find it an even more attractive idea.
Instead of that, it is best that parents carry out a strategy based on assertiveness. It is important to listen to them and talk to them, ask them why they want to make this modification, since when have they been thinking about it or when have they decided and all the details related to the tattoo or piercing: size, part of the body, shape. In this way, a feeling of empathy will be created and the minor will be much more receptive to negotiating the issue. In addition, it will be essential to share with them all the risks that exist when having one, regret being one of the most possible, due to their young age.
