I don't completely agree that tattoos are always trashy, though I don't think they are a great idea, either. Tom Sawyer comes to mind: walking down the street swinging a dead rat on a string. Nobody wants to see it, but many smile and laugh, some signal virtue saying "That's disgusting!", but most just hope it doesn't come into their lap.

It's a form of Spectacle. It's all in the marketing, and it is ALL marketing: a way to steal our time and attention. The question comes down to intent as to whether it's a personal statement, a call for help or a form of bullying. Just as any other advertisement.