Every day, color surrounds every person everywhere, evoking unique feelings and emotions. The choice of interior and household items, accessories, improvised means, clothing, and everything else according to the shades of the color palette indicates the personal preferences, internal sensations and state of mind of the individual. Also, personal preferences for colors characterize the mood of the upcoming event or temperament.
The choice of color tone radically affects the psycho-intellectual state of the individual. Psychologists have determined that an environment with a restrained color scheme attracts, calms, promotes a creative atmosphere, and improves communication between people. Color tone can influence feelings, not logic. Studies have proven that 80% of color is “absorbed” by the nervous system, and 20% by vision. There is a certain relationship between color and perception. It has been truly established that every color tone has subconscious associations. Color, like shape, has an emotional impact on any personality. It can instill feelings of comfort and peace, attract or repel, disturb or excite. This can be clearly observed when leafing through booklets, watching good advertising films or looking at posters, glancing at the expressive spatial and color solutions.
Rainbow psychology
As children, we all rejoiced at the appearance of a rainbow in the sky after the rain. Everyone tried to memorize the number and sequence of colors of the rainbow. Who among us does not remember such funny phrases as:
- Every
Hunter
Wants
to
Know
Where
the
Pheasant
Goes . _ _ _ _ - How
once
Jak
- Zanar
Head
broke
the
Lantern
. _ _
_ _ - And other options.
Where the first letters of the words mean the corresponding color name:
- Each
one is red; - O
hunter - orange; - Wants
- yellow; - Know
- green; - Gde
- blue; - S
goes - blue; - Azan
- purple.
But we didn’t even think at that time that each color influences us, our character and our life to one degree or another. And now, having already become adults, we can trace the psychological connection of a certain color we prefer with one or another trait of our character.
Grey
Gray is a neutral color. It is considered to be on the cool end of the color spectrum. Sometimes gray is considered gloomy and depressive. In some designs, light gray can be used instead of white, and dark gray can be used instead of black.
Gray is usually considered conservative and formal, but it can also look modern. Gray is sometimes called the color of grief. Typically, gray is used in corporate designs, where formality and professionalism play a key role. Gray can be very subtle. Pure grays are always shades of black, but there are also grays with hints of blue or brown. In design, gray is used very often for both background and typography.
Examples:
The light gray color makes this design very muted and calm. The typography makes this site look modern, and the light gray background enhances this effect. The cool gray color makes this site sophisticated and modern. This design looks very modern with a dark gray background and light gray typography. Featuring multiple shades of gray, this site looks both professional and sophisticated.
Red color in psychology
Since ancient times, people have shown a special interest in the color red.
In many languages, the same word means the color red and, in general, everything beautiful and beautiful. Among the Polynesians, the word "red" is synonymous with the word "beloved." In China, a sincere, frank person is said to have a “red heart,” while the heart of a bad, treacherous person is black. Red is exciting, hot, activating, associated with danger and aggression. Reds can easily attract attention to any advertisement. Your pulse and blood pressure may increase if you look at red for too long. Red tires quickly.
The meaning of red in psychology
People who prefer red love to be leaders.
Almost all their senses are at their maximum. They are persistent and do not like to put things off. It often happens that those who prefer red are demonstrative and selfish, intolerant, stubborn and cruel. A woman in red is most often inclined to flirt with guys. The color red also denotes power and greatness. In Byzantium, only the empress had the right to wear red boots. The emperor signed in purple ink and sat on a purple throne. For many peoples, the color red symbolizes the south, flame and heat.
Aggressive colors - red, red-orange.
Pink color in psychology
Pink is a soft color that dulls the emotions of anger and aggression.
In places where children with antisocial behavior are corrected, pink walls or furniture are often used. If after a hard day you come home angry and aggressive, look at something pink and your aggression will disappear. Pink can mean goodness, passion, romance, love. Those who prefer pink want to live life to the fullest, desire new experiences, are hardworking and do not like to rest. But sometimes people who prefer pink can be frivolous, childish, and love to show off in front of everyone.
The meaning of pink in psychology
Pink is the color of life, of all living things. He talks about the need to love and be kinder. Those who like him can become agitated over the most insignificant things. For people who are overly pragmatic, this color causes irritation.
How do color therapists decipher purple?
In the section on colors in psychotherapy, it is stated that this shade slows down and depresses the human psyche, causing irritation, a feeling of fatigue and dissatisfaction. However, some experts recommend lilac for relaxation and getting out of a rebellious state.
Purple is a widow's color that conveys grief, melancholy, and symbolizes inaction and sadness.
Orange color in psychology
If you're in a bad mood, look for something orange.
Orange will certainly lift your mood, especially if it's winter outside. In winter, everyone enjoys orange even more than in summer, due to the lack of sun. It’s hard to imagine effective advertising without orange.
The meaning of orange in psychology
People who prefer orange are creative individuals.
They are strong, freedom-loving, and forgive everyone. They have inexhaustible energy that needs to be released, for example, by creating another masterpiece. Orange lovers may have a high opinion of themselves. Orange is the favorite color of intuitive people and passionate dreamers. In heraldry, this color also means hypocrisy and pretense.
Impact on everyday life
Any color can directly or indirectly influence certain events in a person’s life and his character. From an early age, a person is asked questions regarding his favorite color. Each thing and object has its own shade. Therefore, when making purchases, a person looks for an item of his favorite color.
When it comes to global purchases, there may be variations. But the main thing is to take into account the relationship of color with the purpose of using the purchased item. If we are talking about a car, then orange or bright pink color will not be entirely appropriate, since such a car acts very irritatingly on the road and attracts a lot of attention. In this case, it is better to give preference to cool and neutral shades.
If we are talking about home furnishings, then each room in the apartment requires a special color scheme. If we are talking about a bedroom or recreation room, then you should choose warmer and pastel colors. Bright colors can be used in the nursery, the main thing is to maintain a sense of proportion. The kitchen can also look slightly contrasting.
Yellow color in psychology
Yellow is the color of gold, which since ancient times has been perceived as a frozen solar color.
This is the color of autumn, the color of ripe ears and fading leaves, but also the color of illness, death, the other world. Among many nations, women preferred yellow clothes. Often the color yellow served as a distinctive feature of noble persons and upper classes. For example, Mongolian lamas wear yellow clothes with a red belt.
On the other hand, among some Asian peoples, yellow is the color of mourning, grief, and sadness. In Europe, a yellow or yellow-black flag meant quarantine, and a yellow cross meant plague. Among the Slavic peoples, yellow is considered the color of jealousy and betrayal, and in Tibet jealousy is literally called “yellow eye.” Let us also remember the “yellow press” and the “yellow house”
The meaning of yellow in psychology
Yellow stimulates the brain and nervous system.
Yellow is joy, warmth and faith in the best. The combination of black letters on a yellow background is the most advantageous for the most effective advertising, as it contributes to better memorization of the text. But don't overdo it with yellow, as it can overstimulate the brain and cause anxiety. People who love the color yellow want to reveal themselves, to achieve the goal they have set for themselves. They are self-confident, joyful and cheerful. These people often have a high level of creativity. Yellow helps them in difficult times and concentrates their attention. Sometimes they like to gossip, or just chat, and are also often absent-minded and critical of themselves and others, but at the same time their self-esteem is not at all low, but on the contrary.
Psychological test
Listen to your feelings, choose your favorite color and correlate the presented data with your own character.
Your color is not necessarily the one you choose when buying new clothes or decorating the interior of your apartment. Character is determined by the shade, looking at which you are inspired and filled with energy.
Red
This color is chosen by very bright personalities. They are active, self-confident, ambitious. Such people cannot stand routine and strive for a rich life, full of bright events and impressions. Supporters of scarlet tones are quick-tempered, passionate, and a little selfish. They are distinguished by strong internal energy, as well as a desire for victory and leadership. The qualities that help the “Reds” achieve success are perseverance, willpower, and efficiency.
Red tones are usually chosen by hot-tempered, passionate and slightly narcissistic people.
Orange
Cheerful, energetic, easy-going individuals choose orange. True fans of this shade radiate positivity and give everyone around them a good mood. There are no hopeless situations for them. They are creative people: optimistic, original, proactive. The color of orange is liked by typical extroverts.
Orange color is characteristic of energetic, but prone to hypocrisy individuals
Yellow
Yellow is the color of optimists. The traits characteristic of his fans are creativity, excellent intuition, a desire to develop and learn something new. These people are determined, curious and patient. They know how to make informed decisions, set goals and achieve them. They quickly adapt to unfamiliar surroundings and get along with people easily. They enjoy universal recognition due to their openness and generosity. But sometimes they are overly freedom-loving and irresponsible.
Yellow symbol of optimism and openness
Green
The symbol of nature and freshness is chosen by people with enviable patience and a high level of intelligence. In addition to intelligence and erudition, admirers of green are characterized by calmness and balance. They have a keen sense of other people, are very attentive to their problems, and are ready to provide sincere support and sympathy at any time. It is easy to rely on such a person, so he becomes an excellent spouse, caring parent, reliable friend and partner. Among lovers of greenery, introverts and conservatives are most often found, avoiding change and striving for peace. They can be self-critical and dependent on other people's opinions.
The choice of green color indicates intelligence, calmness and reliability of a person
Blue
The soft blue tone is adored by kind and friendly people. The traits inherent in such individuals are loyalty, sensuality, impressionability, and romance. They crave social recognition and cannot tolerate loneliness. Fans of blue love to travel and constantly discover new horizons. They are distinguished by some carelessness, naivety, immaturity, and touchiness.
Blue loves romantic natures
Blue
Most connoisseurs of blue have well-developed logical thinking, punctuality, and a rational approach to business. Melancholic people are often found among them. They feel the need for harmony, silence and comfort. They are very conservative in their views, modest, reserved, and non-conflicting. They urgently need the support and approval of others, but at the same time they know how to take responsibility and have a heightened sense of duty. Instead of attending a noisy party, Blues will prefer spending time in nature, reading a book in a cozy environment, or enjoying creativity.
Such a choice in some cases indicates internal anxiety and overwork.
Character of people choosing blue color
Violet
The color that combines the passion of red and the calmness of blue is chosen by very extraordinary people, because they are constantly trying to balance two different aspects of personality.
A person who chooses purple is characterized by sudden mood swings, inconsistency, unconventional views and beliefs. Such natures have a strong creative side, they are witty, dreamy, and observant. They do not like to make operational decisions; they need to carefully think and weigh everything. They do not tolerate defeat or unfounded criticism. They value freedom and independence.
Key meanings of purple color
Pink
Individuals whose favorite color is pink are characterized by a calm disposition, gentleness and dreaminess. They have their own vision of the world, which often does not coincide with reality. They cannot always objectively assess their strengths and capabilities. Sometimes they deliberately try to appear fragile and defenseless in order to receive more care and attention, but at the same time they themselves do not skimp on tender feelings. Pink shades are popular mainly with young girls and children.
Pink shades are chosen by dreamers with a calm disposition
Turquoise
The turquoise tone, from a psychological point of view, characterizes its fan as an introvert who draws vital energy and inspiration from the inner world. Often suffers from low self-esteem, lack of emotion and difficulty making decisions. But he has extraordinary thinking and a rich imagination.
Introverts prefer turquoise color
Burgundy
In most cases, young people don't like Bordeaux. It is chosen mainly by respectable middle-aged men and women who, due to age, have learned to restrain their emotions, be more disciplined and self-confident.
Burgundy tones are chosen by respectable adults
Brown
A person who prefers brown is usually principled and serious. His main qualities are rigor, restraint, and perseverance. Such individuals value order, simplicity and comfort. They can be economical and overly thrifty, they don’t always understand humor, and they try to keep everything under control. They do not make rash actions and carefully calculate every step.
The color brown itself symbolizes physical strength, and its lover is almost always a man.
Brown color indicates a person's conservatism
White
White is a symbol of purity, virtue and freedom. Everyone who is in love with this color is distinguished by self-confidence, a desire for self-realization, increased accuracy and insight. They are distinguished by their ideal taste, fundamental honesty and responsiveness. They generate new ideas all the time. They need constant admiration. Their disadvantages are excessive criticality and fastidiousness.
White indicates neatness and self-sufficiency
Grey
Gray is a favorite of smart, sensible and rational people. People of this color are intelligent and sociable. They are distinguished by a love of order - in the closet, in thoughts, in feelings. They are prone to intellectual activity and know how to analyze, which allows them to reach certain heights in the profession.
Gray appeals to melancholic and rational people
Black
A person whose color is black is firm in his intentions, he is active and purposeful. Always brings things to the end, strives for power and a high position in society. He is not interested in other people's opinions. He has a complex character and negatively perceives many of life’s troubles.
Characteristics of a person who chooses black
Green color in psychology
Green is a natural, calming and relaxing color.
Green has healing properties and normalizes high blood pressure. People who choose green choose their life path clearly and rationally. They approach any task in life with all seriousness. They love to help others. Their inner world is rich, but they are in no hurry to open it, even though they themselves are not secretive.
The meaning of green in psychology
Green is the color of grass and leaves.
For many peoples, it symbolizes youth, hope, fun, although sometimes it also symbolizes immaturity and lack of perfection. Green color is extremely material and has a calming effect, but it can also produce a depressing impression (it is no coincidence that melancholy is called “green”, and the person himself “turns green” with anger). The people of Iran associate the color green both with rapid growth and freshness, and with misfortune, sadness, sorrow, which is why they say “green leg” about an ill-fated person, and “green house” about a cemetery. In medieval Europe, jesters wore green and yellow clothes, and bankrupts in Germany had to wear green hats.
Our summer is winter, only painted green. Heinrich Heine
Blue color in psychology
For many peoples, the color blue symbolizes heaven and eternity.
It can also symbolize kindness, fidelity, constancy, favor, and in heraldry it denotes chastity, honesty, good reputation and fidelity. "Blue blood" speaks of noble birth; The English call a true Protestant a “blue.” In addition, the color blue is close to black and receives similar symbolic meanings. It was considered mourning in Ancient Egypt and among some peoples of South Africa. The French call horror “blue fear” (remember the fairy tale about “blue beard”. Among the Slavic peoples, blue served as the color of sadness, grief, and was associated with the demonic world. Ancient legends describe black and blue demons.
Blue color in psychology
If you want to inspire confidence in someone, wear blue clothes.
Blue will not only inspire confidence, but also respect for your person, and will also emphasize your high social status and show others that you are prone to stability. Water and ice blue soothes and cools. Heart rate becomes lower. If you want to motivate your employees to work efficiently, paint your office walls blue. This will help not only office staff to work productively, but also weightlifters to exercise more effectively. It has been proven that in rooms with blue walls, athletes' performance increases.
Purple color in psychology
Purple is a dangerous color.
It puts pressure on the psyche and causes apathy. At the same time, purple color increases low self-esteem. People who love the color purple are unusual - not like everyone else. It is difficult for them to realize themselves in life, they are usually very self-critical, and always control themselves very rationally.
The meaning of purple in psychology
The color violet also symbolizes the inherent infantility and suggestibility of a person, the need for support and support. In this sense, the choice or denial of the color purple acts as a kind of indicator of mental and sexual maturity.
Characteristics of cold shades
These include the following colors:
- violet;
- lilac;
- green;
- turquoise;
- blue;
- blue.
Violet
This shade is obtained by mixing red and blue. In psychology, the color purple is associated with sensuality, compassion and detachment; some scientists characterize it from the depressive side. It is believed that this shade is preferred by dissatisfied and gloomy people. This color is also loved by self-critical individuals. Too much purple causes melancholy, but using the shade in moderation helps improve self-esteem.
Other shade characteristics:
- heavy;
- calm;
- saturated;
- mystical;
- cold.
On a note! The color violet unites the spiritual with the material.
This color is often present in the clothing of priests and kings, it is the shade of healers and creative people. Psychologists do not recommend using the color purple when working with young children, mentally unstable people, and the elderly.
blue tint
Blue vibrations have a large amount of magnetism; this tone symbolizes the Universe. Blue color in psychology is used in meditative techniques to immerse oneself in a contemplative state and think about the meaning of life. These are vibrations of inner balance and wisdom, physical and mental relaxation. It is preferred by people with a stable life position, spiritualized and harmonious. They are distinguished by purposefulness and dedication, devotion to high ideals and rigor of views.
Application of blue:
- development of mental abilities;
- relieving stress, anxiety and phobias;
- development of intuition;
- clearing negative thoughts.
This shade calms the nervous system, pacifies desires and extinguishes passions.
Green tone
Green color in psychology is perceived as a symbol of rebirth, renewal, peace and transformation. It is used in healing practices and to achieve relaxation.
Application of green:
- relieving stress and fatigue;
- liberation of the sensory sphere;
- eliminating negative thoughts;
- eliminating anger and imbalance.
However, prolonged concentration on green evokes boredom and melancholy. This color is preferred by balanced and calm people, characterized by efficiency and realistic meaning. The combination of a green tint with depressive vibrations is perceived beneficially by the psyche: the green tone neutralizes the depressiveness of purple and black.
Turquoise shade
This color is one of the coldest of the entire palette of colors. He leaves no one indifferent and attracts glances. This color is used in healing, to awaken creativity, to pacify and cool ardent desires. You can feel the coolness of the sea surf in it.
Lilac shade
This tone is perceived as a sign of affection and kindness. Vibrations of color give a feeling of floating, give peace of mind and put you in a philosophical mood. This color is liked by people with a fine mental organization, romantic and sensual, sentimental and dreamy. They are always ready to respond and support in difficult times, they are distinguished by their ingenuity and sound mind.
Blue tint
The blue tone is associated with the sky; it carries vibrations of comfort, reliability and security. This color calms you down and makes you forget about everyday problems and worries. The blue tone is preferred by office workers, self-sufficient people: they know how to achieve their goals without unnecessary noise and conversation. This tone stimulates creative thinking and is recommended for use in classrooms and studios.
However, too much blue will cause laziness and loss of interest, so moderation should be used. This feature of the blue tone is used to calm the psyche for insomnia and to relieve negative feelings. If you need to detach yourself from the outside world to deepen your thoughts, use a blue tone.
Lilac color in psychology
What does the color lilac mean in human psychology?
Lilac color is one of the shades of purple, as well as a mixture of blue and red colors (a mixture of feminine and masculine principles), means a bright future. Blue in this shade gives a certain chill, which also gives the meaning of nostalgia, and red - creativity.
Therefore, if we speak succinctly about the color lilac, then it means a clear future, nostalgia and creativity. This description is often found in teenagers who are full of energy, but at times experience depression, and they also have a long way to go.
The meaning of lilac color in psychology
Also, as the results of various studies have shown, the color lilac improves a person’s self-esteem.
Therefore, people with a low indicator are recommended to wear lilac tones or jewelry. The color lilac in human psychology is vanity and immaturity. This color is often chosen during adolescence.
Lilac color in the psychology of women
If the lilac color is loved by the female gender, this means that she has a creative inclination or the ability to fantasize and imagine well.
It is also generally accepted that such girls like to cheat themselves, while experiencing severe stress and depression. On the other hand, such representatives of the fair sex are cautious and have a desire for harmony and aesthetics. Usually, a love of color leads to a matching color wardrobe. But it is worth remembering that everything is good in moderation, you should not overdo it, since an excess of this shade can cause disgust from the people around you.
So that the widow's color does not become a bad sign at a wedding
If the newlyweds, despite signs and superstitions, still decide to have a purple wedding, they should take into account some recommendations.
Consider the fact that purple goes well with snow-white. You can use white as the basis for your outfit, and bright shades of purple can be used as additional decor. Even the most ardent guardians of beliefs, traditions and superstitions will not find fault with such a technique. The entire wedding reception can be decorated in white and purple colors.
As a purple accessory, the bride can have shoes, a bow-belt on her dress, or a bouquet of delicate orchids. The groom may be in a purple suit, but all these signs and beliefs do not apply to him. If desired, a man can wear a white suit, a purple bow tie or a shirt of this color.
Black color in psychology
Black color in psychology, as a rule, symbolizes misfortune, grief, mourning, and death.
Thus, in ancient Mexico, during the ritual sacrifice of a person, the face and hands of the priests were painted black. Black eyes are still considered dangerous and envious. Ominous characters are always dressed in black, whose appearance portends death. Black color is authoritarian.
If we see a man or woman in black, or a black car, then subconsciously they become more significant for us. This is probably why the limousines of rich and wealthy gentlemen who want to appear authoritarian are black, like their clothes. The color black denotes not only authority and weightiness, but also aggressiveness. There is such an interesting fact: football referees more often punish the team that has a black uniform with penalties, as well as yellow and red cards.
People who prefer black are mysteries. They want to unconsciously attract the attention of others, since black is a curious color because it hides something interesting and scary behind it. If you wear only black, then this may indicate that you are missing something essential in your life. Thus, you protect yourself from unpleasant reality and try to hide. It's better to get out of this state. But this must be done slowly, gradually changing the attributes of black clothing to other bright colors.
The meaning of black color in psychology
It is believed that there is a connection between the color black and sexual attractiveness.
Among some African tribes, women with very black skin are highly valued as lovers, but not as wives. Love passion is shrouded in darkness and mystery; therefore, black can symbolize something intimate and passionately desired. Among the Arabs, the expression “blackness of the eyes” means beloved, “blackness of the heart” means love. Thus, black can also have a favorable meaning. It is perceived this way, for example, in the arid regions of Africa, where there is little water and black clouds promise fertility and abundance. Black bulls, goats or birds are sacrificed to the guardian spirits who send rain, and the priests also dress in black.
Gray color in psychology
In psychology, gray is a neutral color. It's rare to meet someone who loves gray, and just as rare to meet someone who can't stand gray. Gray does not distract from important matters, which is why business people prefer it. At the same time, gray is quite friendly and reliable.
The meaning of gray in psychology
Usually those who prefer gray put reason first, not emotions. Gray clothing gives strength to insecure individuals.
White color in psychology
White color in psychology symbolizes purity, spotlessness, innocence, loyalty, virtue, joy.
It is associated with daylight, as well as with the productive force, which is embodied in milk and eggs. Associated with whiteness is the idea of the obvious, the conventional, the legitimate, the true. All hospital workers wear white coats, most likely because the color white has an association with cleanliness. White color in psychology symbolizes completeness and perfection, freedom of opportunity and the removal of any barriers. This color also symbolizes purity in religion. In addition to all this, white is a symbol of equality, because it is in it that all colors are combined.
The meaning of white color in psychology
People who prefer white are ready to devote themselves completely to their work, but at the same time they can be hard to touch.
Sometimes they can isolate themselves from everyone around them and the surrounding affairs, become disappointed in everything, and become detached and bored all day long. Sometimes they are open to the whole world, they can easily sense a lie, and just as easily reveal the truth of a complex problem. However, white can also have the opposite meaning. By its nature, it seems to absorb, neutralize all other colors and correlates with emptiness, incorporeality, icy silence and, ultimately, with death. The Slavs dressed the dead in white clothes and covered them with a white shroud.
It is customary among some tribes in Africa and Australia to paint the body with white paint after the death of someone close to them. In China and some other countries in Asia and Africa, white is the color of mourning. In the old days, white mourning was also used by the Slavs.
Explaining to someone why the condom was white, Ranevskaya said: “Because white makes you look fat.” Faina Georgievna Ranevskaya
Cream and ivory
Cream and ivory are quite sophisticated colors: they have a little bit of the warmth of brown and a lot of the coolness of white. These colors are usually muted and evoke thoughts of the past. Ivory color - very calm; it is warmer than white, but also carries a sense of purity.
In design, ivory color gives the site elegance and calm. When paired with other earthy colors—like peach or brown—it can also look earthy. It can also be used to lighten dark colors - but the contrast will not be as strong as if we used white.
Examples:
The ivory background creates a warmth that is balanced by the many cool elements on the page. The natural brown colors of the page elements add warmth to the gray-cream background. If it weren't for the cream background, this site would lack elegance. The cream background reinforces the antique theme created by the graphic elements. Thanks to the ivory background and other light colors, the site looks very elegant.
The amount of information in this article may seem overwhelming to you, but the essence of color theory is precisely the sensations that different shades create. Here's a quick guide to the basic meanings of the colors above:
- Red : passion, love, anger
- Orange : energy, happiness, vitality
- Yellow : happiness, hope, deception
- Green : new beginnings, abundance, nature
- Blue : calm, responsibility, sadness
- Purple : creativity, royalty, wealth
- Black : mystery, elegance, evil
- Gray : gloominess, conservatism, formality
- White : innocence, purity, virtue
- Brown : nature, integrity, reliability
- Beige : conservatism, piety, boredom
- Cream : calm, elegance, purity
Psychology of color and human character: relationships
Each person gives preference to one color, at least no more than two or three (depending on where these colors are used - in clothing, furnishings, car color, etc.).
The pleasant or unpleasant feeling that a particular color evokes can change over time. But in any case, the color you prefer can tell a lot about your character and emotional makeup. Psychologists in such cases use a color test developed by Swiss psychologist Max Lüscher in the late 1940s. The Luscher test, used by professional psychologists, requires special training for its use. The “lighter” version of the Luscher test can be easily tested by anyone, using the usual settings of a modern color TV. Psychologists say: if the color red predominates, then the owner of the TV is trusting, but overly emotional and aggressive. If yellow stands out clearly, then such a person inspires confidence in others, is an optimist and expresses friendliness. But the constant smile on his face is most often a mask behind which hides strong internal tension. The predominant blue-green color indicates that the person is timid and weak, but dangerous if someone gets in his way. And finally, those who prefer light blue are accommodating, lazy and do not know moderation in food and drink.
An experienced observer may also be able to provide additional information about a person by their preferred color of car. As proof of this, we can cite data from the American psychologist Berthold Schwartz, who claims that the color of a car can be used to judge some of the psychological characteristics of its owner. Thus, the owners of red and yellow cars are optimists, lovers of life and consider themselves happy. Green ones are worn by nature lovers and realists. Blue is chosen by people with a balanced character. Owners of white cars adhere to conservative views, while business people drive black ones. Gray and silver ones are to the taste of proud people, and brown ones are preferred by respectable spouses and fathers of large families.
How does color affect a person and his life?
Many seriously underestimate the influence of color on a person’s well-being and mood. At times, color can influence the occurrence of certain reactions, which subsequently directly affect important decisions. For example, color can affect a person’s blood pressure and appetite, without him even noticing it.
Remember what feelings you often experience on a cloudy and damp day, looking out of the window and getting ready to leave the apartment. Seeing the grayness behind the glass, you probably feel a significant deterioration in your mood. Positive energy seems to disappear somewhere and the world around begins to evoke unpleasant emotions. It’s unlikely that you have thought that the reason for all these bad moods is precisely the perception of color.
Some time ago, medicine began to pay closer attention to such a phenomenon as color therapy. What is the essence of this technique? Color is used as one of the ways to influence the emotional, mental and even physical state of the patient. The basis of the technique was the wavelength of each color - it turned out that each length has a specific effect on the human body.
By the way, color as one of the aspects of treatment has been used since the existence of ancient civilizations. For example, in ancient Egypt, special rooms were allocated in temples in which the refraction of sunlight took place - this subsequently influenced the appearance of different colors of the spectrum. The person seemed to be bathed in bright colors, and this technique even got its name - “Ra-therapy”. Today, this unusual treatment method has been replaced by chromotherapy, a science that studies how certain colors affect human health.
The meaning of colors in psychology - table
Below is a brief description and meaning of primary colors in personality psychology. Based on the preference for one color or another, everyone can independently draw a conclusion about their psychological characteristics. Table 1 - The meaning of colors in psychology (briefly)
Color | Color meaning |
Red | The color of passions. If this is your favorite color, then such a person is brave, he is a strong-willed, domineering type, quick-tempered and sociable. Moreover, he is an altruist. People who are irritated by this color have an inferiority complex, fear of quarrels, a tendency towards solitude, stability in relationships. The red color symbolizes excitement and energy. This color is also a symbol of eroticism. Disgust and ignoring red reflects organic weakness, physical or mental exhaustion. Prisoners of war, forced to live for years in life-threatening conditions, were especially likely to reject him. Red is the color most preferred by teenagers. |
Yellow | Symbolizes calmness, ease in relationships with people, intelligence. Being loved means being sociable, curious, courageous, adaptable, and enjoying the opportunity to please and attract people. When he is unpleasant, then we are talking about a concentrated, pessimistic person with whom it is difficult to establish an acquaintance. Yellow comes from mixing green and red and is the color of energy. The greatest preference for yellow is given to pregnant women expecting a successful outcome of childbirth, as well as people who are prone to changing places. Yellow is also interpreted as the color of illumination (halo/aura of Christ or Buddha). |
Green | The color of nature, nature, life itself, spring. The one who prefers it is afraid of other people's influence, looking for a way to assert himself, since this is vitally important for him. Anyone who does not love him is afraid of everyday problems, the vicissitudes of fate, in general, all difficulties. The color green contains hidden potential energy and reflects the degree of volitional tension, therefore people who prefer green strive for self-confidence and confidence in general. Eccentric people, who achieve their goals not through targeted volitional activity, but through emotions, reject green as an unattractive color. Along with them, green color is rejected by people who are on the verge of mental and physical exhaustion. |
Blue | The color of the sky, peace, relaxation. If you like him, then this speaks of modesty and melancholy; such a person often needs to rest, he gets tired quickly, a sense of confidence and the goodwill of others is extremely important to him. The rejection of this color reveals a person who wants to give the impression that he can do anything in the world. But, in essence, he is a model of uncertainty and isolation. Indifference to this color speaks of a certain frivolity in the field of feelings, although hidden under the guise of courtesy. In short, choosing blue as the most preferred color reflects a person's physiological and psychological need for peace, and denying it means that a person avoids relaxation. When you are sick or overworked, the need for blue increases. |
Brown | The color of individuals standing firmly and confidently on their feet. People who have a soft spot for him value traditions and family. The preference for brown reflects, first of all, the desire for simple instinctive experiences, primitive sensual joys. At the same time, the choice of this color as the most preferred also indicates a certain physical exhaustion. Normally, along with black, brown is the color most often rejected by people. |
Black | The color of uncertainty, symbolizing a gloomy perception of life. Anyone who prefers to dress in black often perceives life in dark colors, is unconfident, unhappy, and prone to depression, because he has no doubt that his ideals in life are unattainable. Frequently changing a black suit or dress to another, brighter, catchier one, indicates that pessimistic moods often dissipate. The constant choice of black indicates the presence of a certain crisis state and characterizes aggressive rejection of the world or oneself (remember the black banners of anarchists). Children who are acutely experiencing a lack of care and love often use black shading in their drawings. Normally, black is generally rejected. |
Grey | The favorite color of sensible and distrustful people who think for a long time before making any decision. It is also a neutral color favored by those who are afraid to make a statement too loudly. If you don’t like this color, then this is an indicator of an impulsive, frivolous character. Often, gray color is also preferable in case of severe overwork as a barrier, fencing off the irritants of the outside world. In situations of psychological testing, this color is used as a means of protection against the penetration of another into the inner world of the subject. A study of about two thousand young men in a situation of competitive examinations for vacant positions showed that the color gray was put in first place by 27% of the examinees, instead of the usual 5% in a normal situation. |
White | A synthesis of all colors, which is why it is the “ideal” color. It contains a significant meaning, since it simultaneously conveys the brilliance of light and the coldness of ice. This color can be preferred by a person with any character; it does not repel anyone. |
Psychology of color perception
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Associations caused by color Psychologists have long established that color significantly affects a person’s psycho-emotional perception of various things. After all, colors appeal to feelings, not to human logic. When creating a design, be it the corporate identity of a company or the packaging of a new product, you need to take into account a certain relationship between the color scheme and the natural perception of it by a person. Everything should work towards the goal - to attract attention, interest, evoke the right emotions. When developing logos and other graphic elements, we proceed from the fact that the image we create must have visual strength and harmony. The importance of color in advertising is enormous. A well-defined task and the professionalism of the designer are important components in the success of any project. How consumers perceive your product depends on many factors. The design and color of the packaging, as is known, determines the buyer’s first impression of the product. Color can attract and repel, instill a feeling of calm and comfort, or, on the contrary, excite and disturb. Each color has its own psychological subtext (meaning). The information provided here is general, without a detailed analysis of the impact of a particular color on a person. It should also be taken into account that in different environments the same color can be perceived differently: for example, a red spot on a white, neutral gray and yellow background will be perceived differently.
Yellow Yellow is a bright, stimulating color that increases concentration, improves memory, organizes, and promotes quick decision making. Helps understand new ideas. Yellow is the color of the sun, energetic, but without aggression, the color of optimism, freedom, openness, mobility, sociability. Adjusts for communication skills. This color is openness and sociability. Helps to give balance to emotions, to find inner peace, to pacify emotional excitement. People who prefer this color do not like fools, they like to be admired, they do not like to be driven into a corner. They are characterized by high self-esteem, self-confidence, and activity. The color yellow can “endow” an object with intelligence. This color will be successful in advertising high-tech products, goods for children, travel agencies, and advertising agencies. It is often used in food packaging, in particular bread, flour products, and cereals. Causes positive associations in advertising. Possible negative associations: At the level of stereotypes, there is an opinion that Yellow is the color of separation. Yellow can also evoke associations associated with jealousy, envy, condemnation of others, “The Color of Gossip” (yellow press).
Orange The color Orange in small quantities awakens in us thoughts of joy, fun and bright sunshine. Orange color releases emotions, raises self-esteem, promotes good mood, and is an excellent antidepressant. Helps to induce a surge of vitality and gives an optimistic tone. Considered the color of health and creativity. Orange color adds activity, but at the same time gives a feeling of inner balance and spiritual harmony. The main association associated with the color orange is spiciness and piquancy. It is this word that can determine our attitude towards the color orange. This color is best used in advertising medicines, products for children, health services and education. To prevent the orange color from causing irritation, you can use its various shades. Pastel orange color is close to peach - and this color in people's minds is usually associated with freshness and health, natural skin color and cosmetics. Possible negative associations: Too much orange seems brash and insolent to us. And an excess of arrogance already looks vulgar and cheap. However, there are other shades of perceived orange that many manufacturers use. The color orange is often associated with low price and availability. No wonder it is so widely used in fast food restaurant chains.
Red Of all the colors in the spectrum, red causes the most powerful physiological reaction - increased heart rate. Red color will not allow you to pass by; it immediately attracts attention and controls the situation. In nature, red is the color of abundance, it evokes strong emotions that will depend on the situation, because... associatively it can be the color of love, rage, celebration, fun. The color red represents power, breakthrough, the will to win; as a rule, it is chosen by people who always achieve their goals; it contributes to a statement of strength and opportunity. It instills decisiveness and can arouse in a person a strong desire for action, vigorous effort - for example, to buy an advertised product. Calls for attention. It also has a certain sexual charge. Possible negative associations: An abundance of red can cause irritation and even rage. To achieve harmony, it can be combined with other calmer shades, such as gray.
Pink Pink color symbolizes joy, youth, kindness, friendliness, femininity. Like red, it is the color of love and flowers. It can also be said that pink is the color of dreams and hope; stereotypically it is often perceived as feminine. People who prefer pink are usually dreamy, conscientious, but more delicate; they try to avoid disputes and conflicts. Excellent for the sphere of personal relationships: enhances feelings, makes people more attentive, affectionate and sensitive. Pink is often used in cosmetics, especially for young girls, and is the color favored by toy manufacturers; often used in advertising perfumes, products for women and children, marriage agency services, and family centers. Toys and clothes intended for girls are traditionally pink. Possible negative associations: Fragility, vagueness, weakness, frivolity. Perhaps frivolity (weakening the influence of red), putting yourself on display.
Bordeaux Burgundy color is an indicator of solidity, confidence, and conservatism. It is moderate and is associated with stability and resilience. People who prefer this color are self-confident, without unnecessary emotions, assertive but enterprising, with good organizational skills. Burgundy is considered an elegant color, which is why it is often used in the design of restaurants and furniture showrooms. Possible negative associations: Heavy, depressing. The use of this color should be moderate, because... in large quantities it can put pressure on the psyche and create depression. It can be associated with the color of antiquity, but in combination with gray it becomes an indicator of prosperity and solidity.
Purple The color of human spiritual power. Helps you focus on the main thing and inspires inspiration. He is loved by creative people, people with unconventional thinking, he is able to balance the spiritual and material. Associated with something exclusive and creative. The color violet stimulates brain function well; it is often used on packages of chocolate, raisins, and nuts. Recently, purple has often been used in the design of modern interiors; previously it was considered a majestic color, which was always present in the clothes of kings. Possible negative associations: Lightning is often depicted in shades of purple, which evokes thoughts of the supernatural and mystical. This color can be perceived in completely different ways; for some it is the color of power, spirituality and wisdom, and for others it is fanaticism, alienation and even death.
Blue Blue is the color of peace and universal harmony. This color is associated with intelligence and the ability to pacify with words. Associated with honesty, sincerity, purity, silence, coolness, but the strongest associations are the globe, water, sky, peace, ice. This is a comfortable color that evokes a feeling of well-being, security, and trust. The blue color is not as cold as blue, so being in the same range, it is more comfortable, the freshness and coolness of blue is completely different from the frostiness of blue. Perfume and cosmetics companies, as well as manufacturers of various hygiene products, actively take advantage of this psychological feature of color, using it on the packaging of their products. People who prefer this color are friendly, they know how to listen, are not irritable, and wise. Blue color tunes in to the area of feelings, but more sublime, more platonic than mundane. Blue is the color of peace and universal harmony. It makes it possible to feel an invisible connection with the Universe, and is able to give the subject a holistic appearance, and the issue/case – globality and a favorable outcome. Toys and clothes intended for boys are traditionally blue. Possible negative associations: Depending on the place of use, blue color may be considered not serious, sentimental. Sometimes it can be difficult to concentrate when looking at blue things; looking at a blue sky or looking at a blue object are two different things. Blue, like pink, is somewhat banal and stereotypical.
Blue
Blue is a concentric color, it dedicates everything only to itself. This color has “no bottom”; it never ends, pulling you into itself. Blue color is constancy, perseverance, perseverance, devotion, dedication, seriousness, rigor. It has a very strong psychological value, being the color of persuasion, but not as emotionally oppressive as red. Symbolizes eternal values, height and depth, wisdom and rigor. Dark blue color is considered businesslike, professional and authoritative - it’s not for nothing that businessmen love it so much. Helps you concentrate on what is essential. A blue detail in a catalog or advertising brochure will immediately attract attention, but unlike red, it will almost never cause negative emotions. Possible negative associations: Blue is not only the color of the sky, but also the color of the night; it can be associated with magic, strange things, witchcraft, oppression, fanaticism.
Green Green is the color of life and nature, symbolizing prosperity and new beginnings. It heals, relaxes and softens a person, so it is often used in the design of medical institutions, on the packaging of medicines, cosmetics and detergents. Green neutralizes the effects of other colors and helps dispel negative emotions. Brings calm and tranquility, helps to concentrate and make decisions. Has a strong association with spring, youth, renewal and naturalness. Possible negative associations: In large quantities it causes excessive relaxation, turning into lethargy, boredom and laziness, so it should be combined with other colors. A color that doesn’t demand anything and doesn’t call anywhere (looks past everyone). It has many shades, which sometimes give completely opposite meanings. “Green” is what professionals call an untrained person, a beginner (meaning inexperienced, young). Green color is avoided on sweet packaging because... psychologists have proven that in people’s perception the color green is “bitter” or “sour”, but not sweet. White White is the color of calm, purity and serenity. White color is characterized by perfection and completeness, demonstrating an absolute and final decision, complete freedom for possibilities and the removal of obstacles. Its fundamental quality is equality, because white contains all colors, they are equal in it. Its key meanings are: light, peace, chastity, concentration, virginity. Most often it is used as a background; all the colors on it look rich and bright. White was the color of social harmony and peace. Possible negative associations: Too much white can lead to feelings of superiority or inferiority. It can be the color of detachment, coldness, indifference.
Black
Black always hides everything it carries, being the most “mysterious” color. Balances white color (without darkness there is no light, yin and yang). Correlates with infinity, helps to concentrate and isolate oneself from all extraneous colors. In its pure form, it is used quite rarely, because... causes negative emotions. It is usually paired with warmer, brighter colors to create more contrast. Black color is classic; black suits for men are an integral part of business style. Indispensable for creating clear shapes and lines. Possible negative associations: Causes a feeling of bitterness, heaviness, despondency. Often associated with mourning. In this case, combining it with red can help; it will add dynamics and aspiration to black.
Brown Brown is the color of strength, solidity, stability, and practicality. Brown symbols: soil, tree, earth, autumn. It has abstract symbols - hard work, endurance, conservatism. Brown, along with black and navy blue, often dominates the clothing of rich and confident people, which emphasizes their sense of self-worth. Brown is the color of coffee and aromatic spices; it is exquisitely used in the interior design of coffee shops and restaurants. People who prefer this color desire physical relaxation, peace, and concentration, so it can be used in office themes. Possible negative associations: Brown color may seem boring, even depressing, and may cause associations with tobacco, smoking, and unpleasant odors.
Gray Gray color connects white and black, forming a harmony of two opposite colors. Neutral in itself, it has a subtle beauty, especially when combined with bright colors. Gray is the color of intelligence, it relaxes and helps you feel calm. It is universal and conservative, can be used in almost any field of activity to create brevity and sophistication. Possible negative associations: Gray can be associated with bad weather, illness, feelings of uselessness, melancholy, and fatigue. His capacity for peace may be replaced by a feeling of endless melancholy and sadness. It is rarely used when creating packaging for detergents, shampoos, and hygiene products, because... in the psychological perception of people, gray is the color of the city, modern offices, asphalt, dust, but not shampoos.
Golden Golden color symbolizes luxury, radiance, sun, impeccability. Represents the desire for power and demonstration of one's superiority. Gold is the color of work, career growth and wealth; as a rule, it is used in combination with other colors to give them greater significance and shine. Gold is one of the most dangerous colors; using it in large quantities can turn elegant luxury into bad taste. People like to use it on packages of coffee, tea, and cigarettes; psychologically it makes the taste “rich.” Possible negative associations: Gold can be perceived in completely different ways, causing associations of wastefulness, excessive idleness, and bad taste.
Silver Silver comes out of the gray, expresses the desire for freedom and an attempt to overcome all restrictions. Embodies nobility, safety, strength. Association words: lighting, reflection, penetration, impartiality, smoothness. Silver is a fairly cool color; it is used in small quantities on packaging; it is “more modest” than gold and, with its cold shine, adds a proud aristocracy to objects. Most often, this color is used by manufacturers of cars and equipment; thanks to its direct association with metal, silver seems stronger and more reliable. Possible negative associations: Like grey, silver can be considered a color of indifference, and due to its metallic sheen it is colder and more unapproachable. Other associations: deceit, duplicity, illusoryness.
A little about the psychology of color combinations Psychologists have found that the number of colors used directly affects the effectiveness of the advertising message. If the efficiency of perception of a black and white image is taken as 100%, then the efficiency of a two-color image increases by 20%, and a multicolor image by 40%. For advertising purposes, it is generally not customary to use more than two different colors, but they can be varied by using similar shades, as this creates a sense of color consistency and is not irritating to the eye. When creating a new product, it is very important to consider that in the future it becomes more successful if the color scheme is used correctly, which over time becomes a corporate color scheme. You must also take into account the fact that colors tend to appear one within the other. This means that adjacent colors can enhance or cancel each other out. Thus, cigarettes in a brown and white pack, due to their white color, seem weaker than those in a brown one. When they are brown-blue or brown-gold, they acquire not only a strong, but also a somewhat aristocratic taste. Sometimes several colors located nearby give a completely unexpected effect. For example, red represents energy, movement, danger, rage, and black - mystery, sadness, sadness, but the combination of red and black immediately transforms into something extravagant, piquant, alluring. But the combination of red with another, bright and emotionally rich color can look tasteless and irritate the eye. Therefore, all colors should be in harmony with each other, balance, but not suppress. The color that should carry the main psychological and emotional message should be the main and dominant one. Site map and search: