Red is most strongly associated with anger across various studies. This link between the color red and anger has been consistently observed across different research methodologies.
The Strong Association Between Red and Anger
Numerous studies have highlighted the connection between the color red and the emotion of anger. For example, research by Kaya and Epps (2004) and Sutton and Altarriba (2016) have independently noted this relationship. The color red is frequently chosen to represent anger, often signifying threat and potential aggression. One study even found red to be the most frequently selected color when participants were asked to associate colors with emotions, surpassing black and gray in frequency (Figure 1, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6399154/). While red's association with anger is widely accepted, it is important to note that other colors can also symbolize anger depending on cultural context and individual interpretation.
Other Colors Associated with Anger
While red is dominant, other colors may represent anger depending on the context:
- Black: Often associated with anger, particularly a darker, more brooding or intense form of anger.
- Gray: Can represent a subdued or muted form of anger.
It's crucial to remember that color associations with emotions are not universally fixed. Cultural differences and individual experiences heavily influence these perceptions. A specific shade of a color, for example, may evoke different emotional responses compared to other shades within the same color family.
Why is Red Linked to Anger?
The reasons behind the prevalent association of red with anger are multifaceted and not fully understood. Some theories suggest it is rooted in primal instincts, associating the color with blood and therefore, aggression. Furthermore, red's high intensity and visual prominence can contribute to its perceived association with strong emotions such as anger.
