Tattooed psychologists seen as more ‘confident, empathetic’: USask study

A study done by University of Saskatchewan graduate shows psychologists are viewed as more competent and trustworthy when they are inked. 

For the longest time, body art has been deemed unprofessional or linked to negative stereotypes.

However, the stigma around tattoos has been changing.

A study done by University of Saskatchewan Department of Psychology graduate, Alexandra Zidenberg, shows psychologists are viewed as more competent and trustworthy when they are inked.

Saskatoon tattoo artist and owner of Honey Bee Tattoo shop Haley Gardiner said, ‘it is about time.’

Over 500 participants, mainly from Saskatchewan, were shown three different photos of the same psychologist, but one of them had a prominent skull and flower tattoo.

The tatted professional was perceived to be more confident, empathetic and likable.

“Having super visible tattoos is a form of vulnerability which I think people would be able to relate to a lot,” said Gardiner.

Zidenberg got the idea to research the connection between psychologists and tattoos when she was out for dinner with some friends working in professional fields. They expressed concerns about the stigma of their own tattoos in the workplace.