- By Matthew P. Binkewicz
- Around Town
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Ask IMOAsk IMOLansing's Advice Column
Dear IMO,
Our 16-year-old daughter wants to get a tattoo. Since her middle name is Rose, she would like to get a small rose on her right calf. She has chosen the design and showed it to me and my husband. When she spoke to us about her plans, my husband nearly had a stroke. He is completely against this idea and won’t even speak with her about it.
I’m not thrilled about the idea, but I think it is important to sit down with her and discuss the rationale behind her decision.
Having been 16 a very long time ago, I understand her desire to explore and experiment with ideas and new styles. How can I get my husband to simply sit and listen to her, and more importantly, what do you think about the idea of a 16 year old getting a tattoo?
EW
Dear EW,
I believe that it is a healthy activity for teenagers to explore ideas and experiment with new styles up to a certain point. About a year ago, my neighbor’s son decided to grow dreadlocks. For the most part, he likes them and so do his parents. Some day, he won’t like them and then off to the barber for a quick buzz cut. Within a few months, the hair will be back to a normal length and styled in a new way.
With tattoos, it’s not quite so easy. Tattoos are permanent. Some people I know regret the day they walked into the tattoo parlor and had the artist put a skull and crossbones on their forearm. You and your husband need to sit down and discuss your daughter’s decision to get a tattoo. You should listen to what she has to say and offer some other alternatives. Perhaps you can suggest she try a “henna” tattoo. From what I know, the henna dye will last for a while, and this can serve as a test trial as to whether or not she likes the idea of a tattoo.
There is very little you can do to stop her from getting the tattoo. Listen to what she has to say and be grateful her middle name is “Rose.”
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