I just wanted to address the 3 questions parents should ask ourselves in order to prevent fear-driven parenting.

1. Will my child’s decision bring harm to him/her or others?

This is the longest common denominator type of question. I think of 2 statements by the Apostle Paul indicate a better question is in order - All things are permissible but all things are not profitable. Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. "Bringing harm to self or others" sounds too much like - can I get away with it. God expects/demands more than that.

2. Will my child’s actions affect him/her spiritually?

Most of our actions have some impact spiritually, physically, emotionally. It is probably better to ask - how will such actions afffect him/her? Also, what motivation is behind the actions?

3. Is the child’s behavior, goal, or desire age appropriate?

Who gets to define the answer here? Is is society? I hope not - that would be dangerous.

Twenty plus years ago as a teenager I identified myself with the music I listened to. My parents would tell me how horrible my music was. It really hurt when grownups would sit around and criticise the music I enjoyed, especially in front of me. (I still listen to the same music)
Kids still identify with their music today but they identify even moreso with the tatoos. By rejecting the tatoo one is rejecting the person, at least in that persons mind.
I suppose we carry that on into adulthood. I personally do not like tatoos. I don't want one and prefer not to date someone who likes/has them knowing that would always be something I wished I could change about them. If you have one or several and like them... great!, enjoy it, I'm happy for you. I'm just not going to enjoy it with you.

A link to this article has been posted on the website GoodNewsNow.com.