Aesthetic manipulation
1
Purpose
The goal of aesthetic manipulation is to lead users to make choices against their interests through the visual design of an interface.
2
Psychological principles
This pattern capitalizes on the psychological principles of attention and association.
3
Prevention
Users can protect themselves by taking extra time to examine their options.
Four methods of aesthetic manipulation
Color design: Designs may use low-contrast colors to make an option less appealing or visible. Or high-contrast colors to entice users.
Visuals: Images or videos that lead users to make certain untrue assumptions about the interface or product behind it.
Layout: The size, shape, or arrangement of options encourages or discourage certain choices.
Animations: Using movements and unique animations to draw the eye.
Note: Just because one option is more prominent does not necessarily mean that the interface is manipulative. We expect the “delete all files’ option in any application to be harder to access than the sign-up screen.
Behind the pattern
This deceptive pattern uses the psychological principles of attention and association.
Attention. Our attention is limited. We can’t listen two podcasts at the same time (although I wish I could). Because of this, our eyes are drawn to loud colors and quick movements. Using UI elements that echo this can heighten the attention to elements and diminish our attention to others.
Association. Colors, cultural icons, visuals, and designs all have associations. For example, red is often used in the food industry because it jump-starts our appetites.
Types of aesthetic manipulation
False Hierarchy [2]
Presenting one or more options precedence over others, especially when they are equally important.
Disguised Ad [1]
Ads that are disguised as other kinds of content or navigation.
How to protect yourself
Take your time. Just because an option is yelling at you to ‘pick me!’, doesn’t always mean it’s the right option for you. It never hurts to slow down enough to read and understand your options.
Look for hidden options. Check fine print, small hyperlinks, or low-contrast buttons for the options you’re looking for.