Adolescent trends in the late 20th century: fad or societal alienation?

Since teens are engaging in a variety of body modifications at increasingly early ages, health care providers should be aware of the extent and the possible harm of these activities. This article reviews the historical context, medical uses, and risks of tattooing and other forms of body modification. There is little historical precedent for the extent of body piercing as carried out by the youth today. Body building is also practiced in excess. There is little legislative control of body modification other than for tattooing. The need for even young adolescents to improve their appearance and self-esteem with such extreme and even risky measures is evidence of a regressive trend in our culture.