Influence of social media and peer pressure on tattooing and body piercing practices among college students

Abstract Tattooing and body piercing have become increasingly popular among young adults and college students across the globe. Social media platforms, celebrity culture, peer interactions, and fashion trends significantly influence the perception and adoption of body modification practices among youth populations. Although tattoos and body piercings are often considered forms of self-expression and identity formation, they are also associated with multiple health risks, including skin infections, allergic reactions, hepatitis B and C transmission, HIV infection, scarring, and psychosocial complications. The present study aimed to assess the influence of social media and peer pressure on tattooing and body piercing practices among college students in selected colleges of district Patiala, Punjab. A quantitative descriptive correlational research design was adopted for the study. A total of 200 young adults aged 18–25 years were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire and an attitude scale. The findings revealed that social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Snapchat played a major role in shaping attitudes towards tattoos and body piercing. Peer influence, celebrity endorsements, fashion trends, and online visual content significantly motivated students to adopt body modification practices. More than half of the participants reported body piercing experience, while nearly one-third had tattoo experience. Despite moderate awareness regarding health complications, a considerable proportion of students underestimated the risks associated with unsterile procedures. The study highlighted the urgent need for educational interventions, awareness programmes, and community health initiatives targeting young adults regarding safe body modification practices. The findings support the development of evidence-based educational strategies and instructional materials for college students. Keywords: Tattooing, Body Piercing, Social Media, Peer Pressure, Young Adults, College Students, Health Risks, Punjab.