Nowadays the trend of getting tattoos is extremely popular. It has become somewhat of a tradition to get one after turning 18, regardless of any personal meaning. The desire to fit in and always be up to date on the new trends is so important to most teens, causing them to overlook the fact that tattoos do not go away.
Arizona State student Courtney Layman, 19, got a tattoo one month after turning 18. Her tattoo is of a dove holding a flower in its beak. Essentially the dove represents peace and love but Layman got the tattoo simply because she thought it was cute. Layman said, “It has a meaning, just not a special personal meaning.”
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| Layman showing off her tattoo. |
On the other hand Arizona State student Valerie Shively, 18, says her tattoo does have a personal meaning. Hers is of the Britney Spears fairy. Shively said, “The meaning behind my fairy may seem vain, but Britney Spears is more than just a singer to me.”
The trend of tattoos has stretched beyond real meaning. The longing to be popular has caused an epidemic of teenagers getting meaningless tattoos. Shively said, “Even when I grow older I know I won’t regret it, because even if I’ve outgrown Britney she will always be a part of my childhood.”
Whether the tattoos will remain meaningful to the teens as they age and outgrow trends or if they get them removed, the trend will continue to take over this millennium’s youth.
Amy Ortega
