Having worked as a psychologist in correctional facilities for a number of years, I have talked with many offenders preparing for release from custody who realize that the tattoos they have are no longer what they want to “advertise” to others in the free world. Many of these tattoos serve to document lifestyles, behaviors, beliefs and allegiances (such as gang alliances) that the person has left behind as part of the rehabilitation effort. These tattoos can be a negative reminder of harmful choices and it is common to hear them express a desire to no longer have the tattoo.
These individuals understand if they leave justice settings with these tattoos they may encounter challenges in their neighborhoods or pressure to return to a lifestyle they are trying to leave behind. It’s not news to hear that it is difficult to leave a gang, and advertising one’s prior involvement can bring risk from current gang members who are angry with the decision to leave the group, and also from those in rival groups.
Offenders who are readying for release also understand these symbols often impact how employers may view them as potential employees. It is difficult enough for an offender to be hired simply because of being an “ex-offender” and they understand that some tattoos, particularly those considered offensive or graphic, may cost them opportunities for employment. It is well documented that obtaining employment is a key factors towards success while on parole, so employability is not a minor issue. Tattoos are often placed in highly visible locations (arms, hands, neck, and sometimes even the face), making them difficult to cover completing with clothing. The best option in many cases is to have the tattoo removed. Removal can provide both a physical change in appearance and a psychological change in attitude.
The options now available for tattoo removal and the number of professionals who are dedicated to this service are of great benefit to the men and women who want to continue their rehabilitation efforts, obtain employment and reintegrate themselves into the free world. Because many of these tattoos have psychological importance for the individual, working with caring, understanding professionals in this process is invaluable to continuing the change process, yielding successful individuals and safer communities. Tattoo removal truly “moves the needle” for these individuals.
Please refer to the site below for more information about tattoo removal - http://www.newlookhouston.com/TattooRemoval.html
These individuals understand if they leave justice settings with these tattoos they may encounter challenges in their neighborhoods or pressure to return to a lifestyle they are trying to leave behind. It’s not news to hear that it is difficult to leave a gang, and advertising one’s prior involvement can bring risk from current gang members who are angry with the decision to leave the group, and also from those in rival groups.
Offenders who are readying for release also understand these symbols often impact how employers may view them as potential employees. It is difficult enough for an offender to be hired simply because of being an “ex-offender” and they understand that some tattoos, particularly those considered offensive or graphic, may cost them opportunities for employment. It is well documented that obtaining employment is a key factors towards success while on parole, so employability is not a minor issue. Tattoos are often placed in highly visible locations (arms, hands, neck, and sometimes even the face), making them difficult to cover completing with clothing. The best option in many cases is to have the tattoo removed. Removal can provide both a physical change in appearance and a psychological change in attitude.
The options now available for tattoo removal and the number of professionals who are dedicated to this service are of great benefit to the men and women who want to continue their rehabilitation efforts, obtain employment and reintegrate themselves into the free world. Because many of these tattoos have psychological importance for the individual, working with caring, understanding professionals in this process is invaluable to continuing the change process, yielding successful individuals and safer communities. Tattoo removal truly “moves the needle” for these individuals.
Please refer to the site below for more information about tattoo removal - http://www.newlookhouston.com/TattooRemoval.html
