About Subliminal Messages in Advertising
Subliminal messages are used today in many common print ads. Discovered in 1895, subliminal stimuli is an extremely effective way to communicate. These messages appeal to the subconscious mind without even realizing. Subliminal messages help businesses to increase sales and gain new customers.
Subliminal messages is defined as a message that is hidden in another medium. It is designed to fall slightly below our human perception and not be recognized by our conscious mind. It is recognized by our subconscious mind and can impact future decisions, whether it be positive or negative.
History
Subliminal messages in ads has been around for quite some time. The tactic was first discovered in 1895, but wasn't used in marketing until 1957. Subliminal messages are effective in influencing a person's thoughts. Although you might not be aware on a conscious level, you are absorbing a message on a subconscious level. That's why it has been banned from TV commercials.
FCC
In 1974, the FCC banned the use of subliminal messages. They found that it was deceptive to the public, and not in their best interests. The FCC went one step further and warned stations that anyone found using subliminal stimuli would be banned.
Ads
Subliminal messages are still used in print ads. The words on the ad might say one thing but the picture can suggest something else. When you look at the ad, you might only glance at the picture and put your focus on the wording. The suggestion behind the picture will stay in your mind.
Example
An example of this would be a diet product ad. Although the ad itself may have a disclaimer about the results of using the product, it might show a slender woman in excellent physical shape. Subconsciously this is giving the reader the impression that using that product will give you a body like the model's.
The goal of advertising is to sell products or services. Some form of subliminal messaging is used in just about every ad today. Many times the main message of the ad will not be stated in words. It will be stated in the picture and what the picture is suggesting to consumers. The suggestion is what turns into a successful ad that makes money.