how to stop grieving teenagers getting tattoos?

Question

their friend died of CF few days.

Answer 1

For pity's sake, BE THE PARENT.

Answer 2

If your teens are over 18 there isn't much you can really do as a parent if you are against tattoos. The only thing I can suggest is to sit down with the kids and explain to them how tattoos fade with age and how unsightly alot of people consider them. Try to offer them another way to cope with the loss of their friend. They are probably trying to act on impulse so perhaps if you can convince them to wait awhile and think about it they will reconsider. You can also suggest they put the tattoos in an inconspicuous place.

If they are under age getting a tattoo without your consent is illegal anyway. They would have to get it done by someone most likely who doesn't have experience in a tattoo parlors. Sometimes teens find tattooing parties. Just try to explain the health risks involved with these informal tattoo parties like the risk of disease through blood transmission if needles are reused or if equipment is not sterile and gloves are not changed. It's very risky unless done through a professional who has licensing to do it...

Good luck...

Answer 3

nothing wrong with having a tattoo in memory of someone - I have plenty of tattoos and they are all for a reason - I am not saying they are all brilliant - I'm sure my boyfriend would tell you he doesn't like most of them - but they are something I love! I have known my best friend for 17 years, I have an L incorporated into a tattoo I have - I love it - she deserves a place on my body since she will always have a place in my life and my heart.

if they are underage though you must tell them to wait until they can get it done legally - why don't you go with your teenager - see what they want - make sure its small and discreet - that way at least you can control some of whats going to happen behind your back anyhow!

Answer 4

Well, if they are under 18 and if you are thier parent then tell them NO! There are a lot of things my teens want to do and as their parent I have to step in sometimes and tell them no. Tell them that if they still want to get this tattoo in remembrance of their friend after they are adults then they have every right to make that decision. Let them know that this isn't a decision to be made at the beginning of the grieving process and you are going to help them make sure it's not something they will regret by making them wait. If they want something to remember their friend have the make and dedicate a website in their honor.

Answer 5

It's the new trend, usually just a small tattoo, same for all who was in the circle of friends. Unless they're under age, you can't really stop them, just advise. My brother has done many of this type of tattoo (memorial) and people usually go away with a happy heart. Yes, I know he's a tattooist and it's his living, but he does lots of them for free. Such as his most recent one, on a guy who's only child, a little girl, died suddenly. He wanted a portrait of his child, on his chest. When it was done, the guy broke down in tears (of happiness) and said he would forever keep his daughter close to his heart. If they still want to go ahead with it, just a small tattoo is best, even on a hidden place such as an ankle. It won't be on constant show, but they'll always know it's there in memory of their friend

Answer 6

You can't. I got my first tattoo as a teenager and all my parents could do was help me choose the design and where to put it. You have to support your children no matter how bad you feel the decision is. Ask your child to look at designs with you and wait a few months after deciding so that they have chance to change their mind. Say that you don't agree with tattoos but let your child make their own decision as in the end it only comes down to them.

Answer 7

well, its hard when a friend dies. they want to find a way of remembering them forever. I suggest making a scrapbook of photos that had the two of them together. but if that isnt possible becuase of lack of photos, perhaps writing a poem would be better.

But if they must get a tattoo to remind them of that person. Then tell them to put the tattoo somewhere that it can be covered up. Set limits on the size, location and cost of it.

Also keep in mind that if you dont let them get one they can make one themselves with ink and a needle. and it might be something both you and they will regret.

Answer 8

If they're over 18, tell them to wait a few months and see if it's still what they want. They will be in the irrational phase of the loss right now, if they still want it in Summer then it's their rational decision. They'd probably choose a more fitting tribute image too, once the dust has settled. If under 18, tell them to wait til they're adults then decide, as it's for life.

Answer 9

Although its really sweet that they want to remember their friend like this, they need to remember that it will be with them for the rest of their lives! I am sure there is some other way to leave a tribute to their friend, they obviously won't forget them. But if they are old enough you can't really stop them!

Answer 10

How old are they, if they are 18 & up, it is their way of having their friends by them always. Just ask them to limit it to 1. My son lost his wife, brother-in-law, ans 2 close friends in a car crash, he had a tat done in a cross with their names in it.

Answer 11

let them get one-as long as they think seriously about what and where they want it, try and pursuade them to get it some where it wont always b on show coz they mite regret it, but i think its a sweet thought!