A narrative systematic review into the literature on memorial tattoos

ABSTRACT

Commemorative tattoos are images etched into the skin to mark a passage in life or to honour someone living. This review aimed to identify all studies of memorial tattoos, to acquire a better understanding of the literature. In recent years, memorial tattoos have become increasingly common expressions of grief; It is important to identify the function they serve in the grieving process of individuals. A systematic review of literature was undertaken following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. An iterative process was used to identify literature, conceptually map, and recognise gaps for future inquiry. Fifteen databases were searched, and a hand search of journals was conducted. Articles were eligible for inclusion if 1) studies focused on memorial tattoos, and 2) were of primary data. A final sample of 11 research articles were included in the systematic review. Ten studies were qualitative, one used a mixed-methods design and all indicated that memorial tattoos are utilised as a therapeutic tool in the grieving process. Memorial tattoos are a sub-set of commemorative tattoos which offer something unique to individuals. Those who have been inked with a memorial tattoo offer an enlightening and unique perspective on the grieving process.

KEYWORDS:

• Memorial tattoos
• tattoos
• memorial
• commemorative and commemoration

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Bee Swann-Thomas

Bee Swann-Thomas is a Qualified Counsellor and works as a Specialist Mental Health Mentor at Staffordshire University. She is currently studying for a PhD in Psychology at Staffordshire University, where her area of research is memorial tattoos and grief.

Alison Owen

Alison Owen is a Lecturer in Health Psychology at Staffordshire University. Alison conducts research in a number of different areas, the main ones being health promotion and body image.

Emily Buckley

Emily Buckley is a Health Psychologist and Senior Lecturer in Health Psychology at Staffordshire University. Emily’s research encompasses a number of areas; she has an interest in death and dying, and how psychology can support individuals and their families during this process.