What is the Gestalt Law of Similarity and Examples

Throughout history, interest has arisen in understanding how the perception and interpretation of phenomena that occur in everyday life is carried out. In this sense, it is likely that we are familiar with certain figures, shapes and aspects that are part of our environment. Have you ever wondered how geometric figures are perceived by those who live in parts of the world where this system is not used? It is clear that some people will not be able to deduce that these are similar shapes and figures if they have not had prior contact with this subject.

There is a branch of psychology that is responsible for the detailed study of these elements. In this PsychologyFor article we will explain in depth what it is. the Gestalt law of similarity and examples

What is the Gestalt law of similarity

The main foundation of the Gestalt law of similarity is that the perception of certain figures and forms with similar characteristics are perceived as belonging to a total group despite being in different places and positions. From this derives the well-known phrase that in Gestalt the whole is more than the sum of the parts. For this reason, there is a tendency in the brain to regroup elements that may be dispersed in a space.

If you want to know more about Gestalt laws, you can also read the article What is the Gestalt law of proximity.

How to use the Gestalt law of similarity

In order to separate the information according to the aspects that Gestalt takes into account, it is necessary to highlight some points. Here’s how the Gestalt law of similarity is used:

• Approximation of elements: This means that the mind has the tendency to bring together various elements beyond their qualities so that the total union results in a whole.
• Similarity of shapes: like the approximation of elements, the similarity of the shapes that can be seen in a certain graph or place will cause them to be interpreted as sets that are linked by their shapes. In other words, the brain regroups elements from their shapes, connecting those with similarity.
• Unification by colors: The visual aspect plays a transcendental role in the Gestalt law of similarity, since colors are also grouped based on the similarity they present to each other.

As its name indicates, the law of similarity places special emphasis on similar aspects that are circumscribed at a visual level based on the abstract modes of spatial organization that the human mind possesses. In the following article you will find What is the Gestalt law of closure and examples.

Examples of the Gestalt law of similarity

Below, we show you some examples of the Gestalt law of similarity to help you understand how it can present itself in everyday life:

Example 1

Firstly, if we notice that a matchbox has some new wooden sticks and some used ones, the brain will apply the principle of the Gestalt law of similarity to unify those that are new and separate them from those that have been used.

In this case, the similarity of shapes and colors is applied to delimit a precise organization of the materials that are visible.

Example 2

If we see a logo of a specific brand in some advertising, we will notice that elements of similar shapes are placed to create the illusion of unity and increase sales. In this way, the possibility arises for the mind to interpret the elements in a similar way and group them even though they belong to different themes.

An example of this case could be that of a cell phone and a book, since their shapes are similar.

Example 3

Continuing with the advertisements, it is possible to notice that many of them denote images that have broken words. However, the truth is that the law of similarity will cause the mind to be able to correctly interpret these images despite being incomplete.

Another example of this quality is, for example, the Adobe brand logo, which presents the letter A in white from its outline.

This article is merely informative, at PsychologyFor we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.

If you want to read more articles similar to What is the Gestalt law of similarity and examples we recommend that you enter our Cognitive Psychology category.

Bibliography

• López Ortiz, RH (2016). Analysis of the Gestalt laws and their application in teaching materials for early education children II. Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador Esmeraldas Campus, Faculty of Administrative and Accounting Sciences.
• Oviedo, GL (2004). The definition of the concept of perception in psychology based on Gestalt theory. Magazine of Social Studies, 18 (1), 89-96.