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ABSTRACT
This paper reviews the history of tattooing and the role of the skin as a locus of interpersonal communication. It considers the psychodynamic dimensions of tattooing, and reports psychological and criminological tattoo studies. It assesses gang tattoos and tattooed criminals in relation to the criminal justice system. Practical suggestions are given regarding the importance of tattoos for criminal justice personnel, court players and rehabilitation therapists in correctional institutions. It points out that mental health professionals, especially those in forensics and corrections, should recognize the possible significance of tattoos in offenders. The inclusion of their interpretation of offender tattoos in their reports would assist the court players in the assessment of possible future dangerousness and recidivism.