Colour Preference: A New Approach

Abstract

To date the use of the colour preference phenomenon in test studies has been associated with exclusive application of the categorical nature of colour perception. It seems justified to approach the phenomenon also from the angle of the hypothesis of priority of the dimensional coding processes that operate in colour perception. A model-type dimensional colour test involving the method of semantic differential has been devised. Using well-matched groups, the consistency of age, sex, and social dependency of the colour preference phenomenon can be clearly described in the dimensional approach. The test-retest reliability of the model test can be considered satisfactory for four of the six dimensions (0.67 to 0.84). The test is validated by comparison with the parameters of the Maudsley Personality Inventory and averaged personality ratings on a 70-item check list made by 16 or 17 peers. The dimensional model test can give better results than those produced by colour tests adopting the categorical approach.