It is said that colors possess a language without words. If you have ever used phrases like “feeling blue” or “red in anger”, you are already familiar with what color psychology deals with. Since long ago, writers and poets have used the medium of color to add a dramatic flair to the feelings and emotions of characters and situations. This is because colors often affect our moods, emotions, and behaviors in more ways than we are aware of.
The colors around us become an integral part of communication by conveying messages that do not require direct speech. Well, our English teachers were after all right in suggesting looking for deeper meaning associated with colors. But how and what effect do colors have on us?
What Is Color Psychology?
Colors add meaning to the surroundings where the conversation takes place and thereby send signals that are to be interpreted by the receivers. For example, if people notice it is getting dark outside, it could simply suggest sunset or could direct attention to the increasing tension in the situation. In this way, colors leave a lot for us to interpret. Psychologists are increasingly becoming interested in understanding the impacts different colors can have on the human mind and behavior. Color psychology is the study of the subjective perceptions associated with colors. It is based on the study that certain colors evoke warm and lovely feelings while others might cause you to be hostile or angry.
People’s choices are often a consequence of their feelings about different colors. While one might think of neon colors as happy and lively, someone else might think of them as a thorn in the eye. Colors have kind of a suggestive quality that is both global as well as culture based. For example, while black is usually worn in western cultures during mourning, an Indian would normally wear white. Moreover, we also tend to assume a lot about a person’s personality by the range of colors they dress themselves in. Therefore, it becomes essential to have a basic sensitivity to the connotative meanings of different colors to be able to convey our feelings as well as interpret others efficiently.
These are the approximations of what different colors could denote. This however is not a worldwide color code and there is always a scope of subjectivity in the perception of meanings associated with colors. The meaning of colors also varies according to the situation and context. For example, in one situation red could mean the feeling of love and passion, whereas in another it could be used to display anger and threat. Hence as much as color adds meaning to situations, situations also add meaning to colors.
The Psychology Of Different Colors
Red Color Psychology
The color red stimulates the body and gets our attention easily. We spot a red car on the road as something unique. Thus, red might denote a certain sense of confidence and strength. Red is one of the most intense colors and this is why the ‘order’ option on many websites is in bright red.
Blue Color Psychology
Does look at the clear blue sky makes you feel warm and relaxed? This can be attributed to the fact that blue comes with a certain stoic and calm feeling. Brands often use blue to promise a sense of reliability and stability. Blue is also used to instigate a harmonic and united sense.
Black Color Psychology
The color black stands out as powerful and influential. Important messages are often highlighted in jet black to convey a strong emphasis. In other contexts, black can also mean sadness and depression. It conveys a sense of emptiness.
Orange Color Psychology
“Orange is the new black”. Well, this is true because the color is now very fashionable and trendy. Orange is used to suggest energy and enthusiasm. You might have seen many sports teams selecting orange as their jersey colors. This is due to the strong sense of vigor and endurance that comes along with it. It is a fun, uplifting, and bright color and the go-to chosen for festive occasions. It is youthful and vibrant and gives a feeling of originality and creativity.
White Color Psychology
The very famous feeling associated with white is peace and innocence. We could say this is the reason why peace is declared using a white flag. White is a very common color used in country flags because it denotes stability, purity, and efficiency. You could choose white when going for a more clean and sophisticated look.
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