Orange is a bright, vibrant color that evokes feelings of excitement, enthusiasm, and warmth. However, some research has linked the color orange to increased anxiety levels. In this article, we’ll explore the theory that orange may trigger anxiety and look at the evidence both for and against this idea.
The Psychology of Color
Color psychology is the study of how different colors impact moods, feelings, and behaviors. It is well-established that color can have a powerful effect on our emotions. For example, blue is associated with calmness and relaxation while red can signify passion or anger.
So how does orange fit into the psychological effects of color? Orange contains the energy and joy of yellow along with the aggression and domination of red. This mix results in orange embodying the qualities of both excitement and anxiety.
Orange in Anxiety Research
A few studies have directly linked the color orange to increased anxiety levels:
The Dental Environment
A 2015 study published in the Journal of Dental Research examined how the color of a dental office impacted patients’ moods. Participants were shown images of dental environments with 4 different color schemes. The results showed that orange environments elicited higher state anxiety levels than green, blue, or white environments.
Exposure Therapy
In a 2017 study, researchers explored how color could optimize exposure therapy for phobias and PTSD. They found that exposure to the color orange during therapies increased anxiety levels and trauma reactions more than blue or gray backgrounds.
Color-Emotion Association
A survey-based study in 2020 examined people’s emotional associations with different colors. Orange was among the colors most commonly associated with feelings of anxiety, second only to gray.
Explanation of the Orange-Anxiety Link
Why might orange trigger anxious feelings and sensations? There are a few potential explanations.
Symbolism of Orange
In many cultures, orange carries symbolic meaning related to danger, warnings, and threats. Traffic cones, safety vests, and hazard signs are all orange. This ingrained symbolism may cause an automatic anxiety response.
Contrast and Visibility
Orange has high visibility and contrast. While this can attract attention, it may also overwhelm the eyes and overstimulate the brain, resulting in anxiety.
Association with Fear
Orange may remind us on a subconscious level of fire, autumn leaves, sunsets, and other things symbolically associated with impermanence and the cycle of life and death. These associations could trigger existential fears.
| Study | Findings on Orange and Anxiety |
|---|---|
| Dental Environment Study | Orange dental offices caused more anxiety than green, blue or white offices |
| Exposure Therapy Study | Orange backgrounds increased anxiety in exposure therapy settings |
| Color-Emotion Survey | Participants associated orange with anxiety more than most colors |
Critiques and Skepticism
While some evidence links orange and anxiety, the connection is debated and not conclusively proven. Here are some limitations of the research:
– Small sample sizes
– Lack of rigorous, controlled studies
– Individual variations in color perception and meaning
– Context plays a major role in color interpretation
– Findings may not apply outside of western cultures
More research is still needed to demonstrate a clear causal anxiety-provoking effect from exposure to the color orange.
Orange in a Positive Context
Though orange may trigger anxiety in some situations, it can also be used intentionally to evoke more uplifting responses. Positive meanings associated with orange include:
– Joy, happiness, positivity
– Creativity, fun, youthful spirit
– Success, confidence, self-esteem
– Health, vitality, physical energy
Brands like Nickelodeon, Fanta, and Gulf have built lively, fun identities around the color orange. When framed in an upbeat context, orange may inspire entirely different emotions.
Conclusion
While a few studies show orange heightening anxiety compared to other colors, more research is required to determine the true relationship. Individual experiences will also vary dramatically. Overall, context plays a major role in determining emotional impact. Orange contains both uplifting, energetic qualities and more ominous, warning symbolism depending on how it is used. With thoughtful applications, orange can be used to counteract anxiety. But in certain vulnerable situations, this bold hue may amplify anxious feelings for some individuals.
