#4 Results

This project was a tough one, and not tough as in academically challenging, but tough as in a real struggle for me to put myself in a position where others will definitely judge me. I had quite a few results from all the locations I placed myself in, some of which proved my hypothesis and some of which did not.
I was shocked, however, by the reactions of those I told about this project when I would be out with them. For example, my friends and family were a lot more hesitant to run errands with me, stand next to me or speak with me in public when I was a walking piece of art. I actually feel like it affected those who knew about it more than strangers I interacted with. All in all, I am glad I chose this topic, despite the stares and head shakes I received along the way.

#3 Revised Summary/Plan/Update

I have decided to place myself in situations where my fake tattoos would be both (seemingly) welcomed or frowned upon. I think it is important that I do not limit myself to certain environments that may be biased, but I would like to cover all bases. I still feel this is the most effective way to observe if others are proving my hypothesis, because I get to see everyone's candid reactions. I'm in the last few phases of this experiment and will hopefully be able to come up with some final results shortly.

#2 Strategy/Plan For Research

After deciding to conduct a naturalistic observation, I had to decide whether or not to actually video tape the experience or to just record notes on paper/my computer/phone. After thinking, I decided it would be best to write everything down and leave the camera at home. I think it would be the more effective way to really understand the thoughts going on in my head as it is all happening, and it would be the less obvious way to conduct research. I will place myself in all different types of settings that way I am exposed to the young, the old, and those in my own generation. I predict that I will encounter some difficulties; it will not be easy for me to willingly subject myself to be judged by strangers, and it will be even harder to pretend like I do not notice or care. I also predict I will get asked some questions and receive many dirty looks, but I suppose that is the way the cookie crumbles. 

#1 Suggested Research Method/Why

For my fourth quarter project, I want to experience the discrimination from the other side by conducting a naturalistic observation in which I subject myself to these "criticisms." I have always been one to stand up to those who put down the way in which others express themselves, but I have never really been on the side where the finger is pointed. To do this experiment, I will cover as much of my arms/body as I can with fake/henna tattoos and place myself in different settings. I will go to grocery stores, the mall, restaurants, anywhere I can, and record the results (how long did it take for me to be served/helped? was I given any strange looks? did people stare or point or whisper? etc.) I would really like to experience this first hand in order to help others tackle the problem themselves.