Psych 101: Crayon Theory- The Psychology of Color

 "Color provokes a psychic vibration. Color hides a power still  unknown but real, which acts on every part of the human body."  --Kandinsky 

" For about as long as humans have been around, they have been aware of  the effects that colors have on emotions. Individuals may not be  consciously aware, but they feel it, nonetheless. In more recent years,  researchers and psychologists have studied color as a science. Whether a  color is used to paint a room, to accentuate an outfit, or to create an  image, the effect is felt by anyone who happens to take it in. Here are  a few basics to color psychology: 

 Red 

This vibrant color stimulates the senses. It gives off a certain  level of energy and excitement, and it can increase a person's  enthusiasm. Red is also known to induce a higher sense of confidence and  to help them ward off insecurities or doubts. Additionally, red can  stimulate appetite, making it a great paint choice for restaurants and  kitchens. 

 The Chinese believe that, by painting the front door of your home red, it will invite prosperity to you and your family. 

 Orange 

Orange is the most controversial of all colors because people either  love it or hate it. Because of its strong association with autumn,  orange is viewed as warm and comforting, especially the more muted  shades. However, researchers have found that orange promotes activity  and socialization among individuals. 

 In Christian religions, orange is used to represent "gluttony." 

 Yellow 

While yellow is commonly associated with happiness and optimism, it  can be toxic in large amounts. For instance, being in a room that is  mostly yellow will cause the nervous system to become over-stimulated,  leaving the room's occupants feeling anxious and uncomfortable. However,  yellow can also help your memory, which is why highlighters are most  commonly yellow. 

 In the world of medicine, yellow is an indication of a quarantine.  

Green 

 Because green is so closely aligned with nature, people tend to  gravitate toward it. It has a soothing quality that can help a person  relax, which is why green is often used in hospital and psychiatric  facilities. The color can help people combat depression and grief, and  it can help individuals to gain a sense of self-control. 

 Bipolar disorder awareness campaigns use the color green. 

Blue 

 Blue is seen as dependable and committed. It can aid in communication  with others; darker shades are used to encourage introspection. Being  in the presence of blue calms a person; their heart rate and blood  pressure will lower, and some argue that it can help people sleep.  Wearing blue makes a person appear to be more trustworthy. You are more  likely to be hired if you wear blue to an interview. 

Most people choose blue toothbrushes over any other color. 

 Purple 

Historically, purple was favored by royalty due to its scarcity; even  today, it often is associated with luxury. Purple promotes a sense of  spirituality and calmness, and it can help you clear your mind. Purple  also stimulates creativity, and it is favored by artists and other  eccentric individuals. 

 The most valuable poker chips are purple and worth $5,000.  

Brown 

 Like green, brown is associated with earth and nature. It can trick your  brain into believing something is stable or secure, and it gives off a  feeling of home or wholesomeness. Wearing brown can make a person appear  to be more trustworthy and down-to-earth in a simple, unassuming way.  Avoid wearing brown in professional settings if you are hoping to make a  strong impression, as people who wear a lot of brown are more  forgettable. 

 Dream interpreters believe that, if you dream of brown, you are going to have a significant monetary gain in the near future. 

White 

 In most instances, white represents purity and innocence. When worn,  this is especially true, which is why most bridal gowns and baptismal  outfits are all white. However, when used in decoration, it can give a  sharp, clean look when used in moderation. Large amounts of white,  similar to how hospitals decorate, give off a sterile feeling. Using too  much white in your home can make guests feel uncomfortable or anxious. 

White is considered the color of mourning in such places as China and Africa. 

 Black 

While considered a "powerful" color, black can represent emptiness  and darkness when used in excess. When used in moderation, it can give a  modern feel to any room. Black is also favored for clothing because it  gives the wearer a slimmer, more sophisticated look. Most people  associate black with heaviness, and they will assume a black box weighs  more than a white one. Additionally, too much black can leave a person  feeling depressed and lonely. 

 An "old wives' tale" claims that a woman will come back to haunt her family if she is buried in black clothing. 

Gray 

 While gray may seem unassuming, it gives a sense of authority to its  wearer. It is  popular in modern architecture and interior designs for  this reason. Whether used in clothing or decor, people see it as  traditional, conservative, and dependable. If a person is around too  much gray, though, they will experience a feeling of being unsettled. 

The human eye can distinguish between approximately 500 different shades of gray. 

 People may think they choose colors based on personal preference, but  research suggests that colors are making the decisions based on how the  wavelengths interact with brain processes. Learning about these effects  can help individuals determine how they want their home to feel, what  messages they send in the workplace, or even which persona they may want  the world to see. "

 Moving these articles to my main Psych 101: Account for better management. Yes, This article is mine.