appeal

n. in advertising, any aspect of a product or service that is highlighted in an attempt to arouse a sympathetic response from consumers. Appeals may be based on psychological studies of consumer desires or needs and may be as obvious as a practical package design or as subtle as an implied suggestion that the product might enhance the purchaser’s sexual attractiveness. Advertising appeals also may be directed toward a specific type of consumer personality. For example, a product appeal for a “conservative family car” might be directed toward married businesspeople with young children, whereas an appeal for a “sexy sports car” might be directed toward younger or older men and women with fewer family responsibilities. Also called product appeal. —appeal vb.

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Psychology term of the day

November 27th 2024

psychoanalytic play technique

a method of child analysis developed by Melanie Klein during the 1920s, in which play activity is interpreted as symbolic of underlying fantasies and conflicts and substitutes for free association. The therapist provides toys for the child and encourages free, imaginative play in order to reveal the child’s unconscious wishes and conflicts.