by Carol Gioia

Created on: November 19, 2009

Psychologists, interior decorators and color analysts have carried out in-depth studies of the effect colors have on mood, and used the information to advantage in their respective areas of expertise.

You don't need professionals to convince you that color has a psychological influence on your emotions. From personal experience you are probably all too aware that certain colors will put you in a good mood and other colors are a definite turn-off.

In his book, "The Power of Color," author Dr. Morton Walker, summarizes what has been learned about the effects of color and identifies the emotions attributed to the various hues.

Being familiar with the attributes assigned to different colors can assist you in using color to create the mood you desire.

* Blue

Blue has a calming influence. Studies have revealed that the color blue can actually lower pulse rates and reduce appetites. Blue also connotes spirituality and loyalty. When speaking of a person who is loyal, he is described as "True blue."

In the world of business, blue is a power color. Navy blue is the preferred choice to wear to a job interview, or when giving a persuasive speech. Presidential candidates typically wear navy blue suits when accepting their parties nomination, or subsequently delivering a state of the union address.

* Green

Green represents coolness and a soothing quality. Green is a popular color used in hospital settings and worn by hospital medical personnel. Green also conjures up nature, good luck, wealth, (The color of money.) In a negative perspective, envious people are referred to as "green with envy."

In a business environment, green is used to describe lack of experience and newness.

* Red

Red is energetic, attention-getting and bold. Restaurants often chose red for their dcor in order to stimulate appetites. Red can also signify danger, (blood,) or anger. When a person is annoyed to the maximum, he will say he "saw red." Red is also often the color worn for joyful occasions and when a person wants to stand out.

* Orange

Orange has the same attributes as red, but to a lesser degree. Orange also portrays creativity, originality and energy. Consider how many sport teams incorporate orange into their colors.

* Black -

Black is the color of sophistication and mystery. Black also has a negative connotation as in mourning, anger or depression, such as "A black mood." Black is favored by those who don't want to follow the rules of convention, as in Goth dress.

* White - conveys innocence

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