Tat will tell: Tattoos and time preferences

Conférencier(e) : Bradley Ruffle, Department of Economics, Wilfrid Laurier University

Invité par : Sabine Kröger

Authors:

Bradley Ruffle, Department of Economics, Wilfrid Laurier University
Anne Wilson, Department of Psychology, Wilfrid Laurier University

Abstract:

Although 40% of American adults under the age of 40 have at least one tattoo, survey evidence suggests that the older 40+ generation maintain negative stereotypes about tattoos. To the extent that this older generation occupies positions of power as employers, younger individuals’ decision to get a tattoo may be viewed as impulsive and short-sighted. We collect numerous incentivized and self-report measures of time preferences and impulsivity of tattooed and non-tattooed subjects and find robust evidence that those with tattoos, especially visible ones, are more short-sighted and impulsive than the non-tattooed. Almost nothing mitigates these results, neither the motive for the tattoo, nor the time elapsed since the last tattoo nor the time contemplated before getting a tattoo. Even the expressed intention to get a(nother) tattoo predicts increased short-sightedness and impulsivity.