We don’t believe that people must abide by certain rules when it comes to body art and modifications. The whole point of this industry of ours is self-expression and individuality. So when searching for information about what your tattoo placement says about you, we don’t want you to be dissuaded about getting inked on a certain part of your body (that you originally desired) because of some preconceived notion. Furthermore, the verdict is out on exactly what personality types even are. For example, the Nancy McWilliams scale distinguishes eight personalities, which honestly read more like disorders:
- Psychopathic (Antisocial)
- Narcissistic
- Schizoid
- Paranoid
- Depressive and Manic
- Masochistic (Self-Defeating)
- Obsessive and Compulsive
- Hysterical
- Dissociative
Meanwhile, the Myers-Briggs system has somehow come up with 16 personality types. We’re not going to list then all (we’ve already digressed too much), as we simply wanted to prove a point about how wacky it can be to label anyone as anything. That being said, you may want the placement to be a reflection of your personality as YOU see it (which is what counts) at which point we’re all for providing insight accordingly. Below is a breakdown of what tattoos on certain parts of the body may generally infer about a person.
Common Bottom-to-Top Tattoo Placements and What They Typically Say About Someone’s Personality
Feet
Aside from the obvious (genitalia) feet are considered the most fetishized part of the body. Consequently, people who get their feet tattooed may be considered more sexual than the average person. They may choose this placement as a mirror of their own desires, or to attract mates that are drawn to the placement.
Lower Leg (shin and calf area)
A tattoo on the shin and/or calf is common to athletic to aggressive (in a positive way) types. This part of the body is important in the development of explosive power, which people need for movements like running, jumping, kicking, and pivoting. If you get a tattoo in this visible spot (during warm months and when at the gym) you’re a bit of a powerhouse and want people to know it.
Thigh
The thigh is also common to those who are comfortable in expressing their sexuality, although it’s kept under wraps for those who get to see it (unless it’s short-short or swimsuit weather). The thighs also represent balance in life (literally and figuratively) and is sometimes subconsciously chosen for tattoo placement for even-keeled persons who appreciate stability or consistency.
Midsection
The midsection is the home to the physical and metaphysical core. A midsection tattoo (between the lower abdomen to under the breastplate) is commonly found on innately confident people who are comfortable with who they are, without having to always show it off in high visible (when clothed) areas.
Chest
The chest cavity holds the lungs and heart. A tattoo over the chest is generally requested by those who constantly seek emotional fulfillment and desire to remind themselves of this every time they step out of the shower, breathe deep, and peer in the mirror.
Lower Back
A lower back tattoo often infers that a person likes to party. Sorry – just kidding! In all seriousness, those with a lower back may actually align quite well with what is identified on the above-mentioned Myers-Briggs system as being the ESFP personality type, which is defined as such:
“Outgoing, friendly, and accepting. Exuberant lovers of life, people, and material comforts. Enjoy working with others to make things happen. Bring common sense and a realistic approach to their work and make work fun. Flexible and spontaneous, adapt readily to new people and environments. Learn best by trying a new skill with other people.”
Upper Back and Shoulders
This placement infers a similar personality to those who get a shin/calf tattoo in that individuals are generally the athletic type, although upper back tattoo recipients can be a little more aggressive and outwardly (different than inwardly) confident.
Upper Arm
A person with an upper arm (bicep and tricep region) is connected to those who don’t mind flexing their strength and confidence. Although, it is also found on individuals who appreciate the emotional connections in their life, which is why you often see memorial tattoos on the bicep. Bicept tattoos can be lifted and touched to the lips for a kiss when desire for connection to a loved one strikes.
Forearm and Hands
While the forearm is sometimes attributed to physically confident persons, it is more aligned with creative artistic types who wear their hearts and passions on their sleeves. They are not afraid to thumb their noses at the system, telling the establishment to take them or leave them. Walk into a tattoo shop near you and you’ll find sleeve/forearm tattoos on most of the tattooists within.
Whether in agreement with the above regarding what your tattoo placement says about you,. or you want to move ahead with a design without regard, book your consultation at SOH Tattoo in downtown Vancouver BC.