Are you a fan of black color? According to color psychology, feelings associated with color highly depend on personal preferences and your past experiences with that color. Black is no exception to this rule. Want to learn more about the psychology of black? Stay with us until the end of this article.
The meaning of the black color
Black color’s most basic symbolic association is with darkness and night. In our minds, we associate the color black with unknown, scary, and bad feelings. Regarding personality traits, the black color is associated with cruelty, lies, betrayal, and secrecy. It is also related to individualism and introversion of secluded and mysterious people.
Of course, not all black concepts in psychology are negative and derogatory. This color is also widely used to indicate mystery, elegance, seriousness, strength, and self-confidence. It is also a symbol of simplicity, order, and rest.
Eva Heller, the author of Psychology of Color, says: “The color black is associated with youth and neutrality. Its practical use creates trust in others due to its poise and formality, although it may also be intimidating.
The psychological effect of the black color
Individual reactions to the color black may vary significantly. Although some of these reactions stem from cultural issues, other factors may also be involved. Your personal experiences and preferences may shape your response to colors.
German scientist Hroman van Helmhels said: “Blackness is a real feeling, even if the complete absence of light causes it. “The feeling of blackness is different from the absence of all senses.”
Positive effects of black color
Some of the positive features of black color are:
- the power;
- elegance;
- formality;
- intelligence ;
- credit;
- maturity
Black color represents strength and elegance at the same time. This is why many people wear black when attending formal events. This is also why famous brands like Tiffany & Co and Chanel use black in their logo. Black color has long been a sign of power and prestige.
Adverse effects of black color
Despite its positive effects, many people see black as a symbol of all things negative. This dark color has been associated with death and misfortune throughout history, and people wear black when attending funerals. This color evokes strong emotions such as anger, aggression, fear, and sadness.
Our negative attitude towards the color black is seen in our language. Consider these common phrases:
- Black hole;
- black market.
- black heart (lousy guy);
- black plague;
- Black Monday (describing the sudden and severe fall of the stock market ).
These are just some of the common expressions in our language.
The psychology of black color in clothes also shows that nothing like black indicates “human badness.” Although people from all walks of life wear (and often prefer) black, it’s usually the stereotypical color of criminals and villains.
Black color psychology about personality
If your favorite color is black, that means:
- You are a serious person.
- You are very independent, like to do things yourself, and rarely ask for help from others.
- Because of its serious nature, it often seemed intimidating to some people.
- Your mind suppresses your emotions and desires.
- You are rebellious and hate being told to do things to you.
- You like to feel strong, powerful, and capable.
- Privacy is important to you, and you like to keep some personal matters to yourself.
- You don’t get close to others quickly and usually stay away from others to protect yourself.
Black color in different fields
1. Black color in marketing
Nothing is random in marketing. Everything is carefully measured to determine the effect of the product on the consumer. For this reason, companies cannot market a product regardless of its color.
In marketing, black evokes mystery and the need for discovery and is usually used to produce luxury products and technologies. It has been proven that using neutral colors, such as black and gray, in a logo conveys honesty, uniqueness, and sophistication.
2. Black color in architecture and design
There has been a lot of research on the effect of the environment and decoration on our mood, and based on this research, color plays a significant role in how a person communicates with the environment.
In interiors, black highlights other colors because it makes them appear brighter. In addition, it dramatically increases the perception of the depth of spaces.
3. Black color in everyday life
Black color is embedded in our culture as a part of the mourning ritual. On the other hand, due to the association of this color with power, security, and formality, the groom usually wears black clothes in the wedding ceremony. In fashion and beauty, black color is used to create a sense of elegance, seriousness, and professionalism.
4. Psychology of black color in children’s painting
Many children use different colors to paint. Using black and dark colors is a children’s technique to reduce stress, just like crying. They get rid of their negative feelings through art. So don’t worry, and allow your child to use these colors.
5. Black color in Feng Shui
Each color represents a feng shui element. Black is associated with water and evokes strength, mystery, and calmness.
Here are some tips for using black color in feng shui:
- Blacken one of the house doors facing north, east, or southeast.
- Use black in the design of a child’s room to bring peace and creativity.
- Paint the floor of the northern part of the building black.
- Use a combination of black and white for the kitchen.
- Place decorative items such as frames or black vases around the house.
The Relationship between color and racial attitudes
It is essential to know that how color is used in language may be related to racial attitudes, racism, bigotry, and colorism.
In one study, researchers found that black students performed poorly on tests when they felt they were receiving negative attention from others because of their race. Getting attention because of race may lead to anxiety and poorer performance.
Colorism or prejudice and discrimination against people based on skin color causes psychological, social, health, and socioeconomic damage.
According to research, how we use color in language can reflect attitudes and beliefs that may be racist or colorist. So it is necessary to be aware of these connections and their effect on our interaction with others.
final word
The meaning of black color in psychology is much more than what we have mentioned in this article. People’s interest in specific colors is based on environment, personality, experience, and education. Note how black makes you feel and how some factors may shape your feelings and reactions to this color.
you say
Are you a fan of black or against it? What do you think about the psychology of the color black? Please share your experiences and valuable opinions with us and our dear users.
Warning! This article is only for educational purposes; to use it, it is necessary to consult a doctor or specialist.
