My therapist said they often are used as a coping mechanism for people who have borderline. I know I have more than a few piercings and tattoos. I admit, it gives me some kind of emotional pleasure/high to get pierced or tatooed. Its basically an acceptable form of sh. I don't know if it's a coping mechanism for me though. Thinking back, sometimes yes, but most times no. 

What about you guys?