Body Art

Body art, such as tattoos and piercings, has increased in popularity, but many health professionals and researchers view it negatively. Brian Brown and Virginia Kuulei Berndt argue that body art is an underappreciated source of mental and physical wellbeing that can open up new sources of community, sociality, and aesthetics. They provide a radical rethink of body art that integrates it within health, wellbeing, and positive psychology, challenging the narrative of stigmatization and welcoming a broader discussion of its benefits.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 18 September 2023
Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

In recent years, body art, particularly tattoos and piercings, has experienced a surge in popularity. However, the response from many health professionals and researchers has been largely negative, as body art continues to be associated with various issues, including poor mental health and offensive behaviors.

Brian Brown and Virginia Kuulei Berndt argue in favor of a reevaluation of the diverse range of practices that fall under the umbrella of body art. They suggest that body art is an underappreciated yet accessible source for mental and physical well-being. They ask how body art can open up new avenues for community, social interaction, and aesthetics. How is it used to reclaim one's body, as a marker of success or accomplishment, or to build friendships? How does participation in these practices impact the health and well-being of body artists themselves?

By providing a radical rethink that integrates tattoos and other body modifications within the fields of health, well-being, and positive psychology, Body Art disrupts the narrative of stigmatization that often surrounds these practices. It welcomes a broader discussion of the benefits that these practices can offer.

Weight: 186g
Dimension: 138 x 216 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804558119