How Does Hip Hop Music Affect Teens

Sociology is a field of social science that focuses on behaviors, interactions, and patterns within human society. It tends to look on the occurrences among the larger group, rather than each separate individual. Observing these social phenomena can provide useful insights and data, which solves societal conflicts or allows for greater understanding of said society. One such observed phenomena is the popularity of both tattoos and hip-hop music in teenagers. From a sociological perspective, one can realize the sociological value, positive and negative effects, and importance of these phenomena to teenagers in present day society.
One may wonder why exactly this particular information is important, aside from teens being teens. From a common observer’s perspective, a tattoo may be nothing more than a tattoo. Similarly, listening to hip-hop is, to some, nothing more than good or bad taste in music.

However, a sociologist would want to look deeper; systematically collecting data like pieces of a puzzle. One of the main purposes of sociology is to analyze the more obscured meanings behind these otherwise common occurrences. Because of this, hip-hop and tattoo popularity would be a perfect route into the mind of teenagers today. The emotions, feelings, or even experiences of the teenager could be discovered through how they are relating to the respective phenomena.
Now that the sociologist has observed and asked the question of why, the next step is to collect and analyze data.

In this particular subject, one sample of data would be the negative and positive aspects and effects created by tattoos and hip-hop music. On one hand, tattoos can allow teens to create a display a greater level of self-expression and even boost confidence. The body is often viewed as a blank canvas on which to release artistic creativity. At the same time though, a tattoo could lead to judgement from select individuals or limit job opportunities. Hip-hop music demonstrates similar contrasts. Depending on the lyrics, hip-hop music could act as an outlet for a positive message that invokes change. Equivalently, lyrics with poor messages could have negative implications when interpreted by younger minds. In fact, many individuals immediately think of lyrics that promote violence, sexism, or even inappropriate activities when they imagine hip-hop. However, this is an overgeneralization. As with all things, the exact aspects would vary from case to

case.
Knowing the varying aspects of each phenomena is beneficial, but it is also important to observe which ones specifically resonate with these teens. To some, a tattoo may be a symbol of rebellion or spite. However, with tattoos becoming less taboo, this would seem as less of a reason in present day. Many people view tattoos as a way to express themselves, while displaying their inner creativity. A tattooist listens to the individual’s planned design and assists in bringing that image to fruition. Others hold a greater value in the personal or symbolic meaning the tattoo holds for them personally. For example, two teens may get a tattoo to represent the bond they share. This is common between best friends, or even significant others. As for hip-hop, the appeal may range from a connection to the music itself or a sense of relation to the lyrics’ subject matter. For example, an individual handling a breakup may find consolation in lyrics speaking of that very situation. Others may simply enjoy hip-hop for the instrumental aspect. Many listeners often praise songs for their beat, even if the lyrics may be a bit subpar.