Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates the psychological mechanisms of comparison within the design context of retail stores, products, and advertising. The research aims to expand the understanding of comparison psychology, encompassing social, cognitive, perceptual, and self-comparisons and their application in design practices. Research Design, Data, and Methodology: The study employs a comprehensive review of psychological theories related to comparison psychology. They were selected through extensive research on literature pertaining to design psychology and consumer behavior. The research integrates insights from psychology, marketing, consumer behavior, and design theory, supported by various design examples of retail stores, products, and advertising, to demonstrate the practical applications. Results: The findings reveal that comparison psychology significantly impacts consumer preferences and user experiences. For instance, the assimilation effect and prospect theory highlight how comparisons shape value judgments and design perceptions. Practical examples are used to illustrate the profound influence of comparative judgments in design. Conclusion: The study advocates for a "psychologically-informed approach" to design, promoting designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound but also psychologically aligned. By bridging the gap between psychological theories and practical design implementations, the research provides valuable insights for designers, marketers, and psychologists, enhancing the psychological efficacy of design.