Picture of Designing Experiences + Sharing Knowledge

Designing Experiences + Sharing Knowledge

With over a decade of experience designing exceptional user experiences across diverse digital platforms, I am passionate about not only creating intuitive and engaging designs but also sharing my knowledge. I strive to empower fellow designers by keeping them informed on the latest UX trends and innovations.

Let's Connect

How Emotional Processing Shapes UXD: Visceral, Behavioral, and Reflective

In user experience (UX) design, emotions play a crucial role in shaping how users interact with digital products. Understanding the three levels of emotional processing, as proposed by Don Norman in Emotional Design—helps designers create more engaging, intuitive, and satisfying experiences.
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

1. Visceral Processing (First Impressions & Instincts)

This level is immediate and subconscious, focusing on the user’s first impression of a product. Visual appeal, colors, typography, and layout all influence visceral reactions.

Use clean, aesthetically pleasing visuals and intuitive design patterns to trigger positive emotions instantly.

Apple’s website

Apple’s product pages use high-quality images, sleek typography, and whitespace to evoke elegance and sophistication. The first impression makes users feel they are engaging with a premium product.

2. Behavioral Processing (Usability & Functionality)

At this level, emotions are driven by how well a product functions. Users feel joy when interactions are smooth and frustration when they struggle with usability.

Prioritize usability testing to refine interactions and remove friction points that could lead to frustration.

Google Search

Google’s homepage is minimalistic and functional, providing a frictionless experience. The instant response to user queries and simple navigation enhance satisfaction.

3. Reflective Processing (Long-Term Impact & Meaning)

Reflective processing involves conscious thought and interpretation of an experience. It shapes how users remember a product and whether they form a connection with it.

Foster emotional connections through meaningful content, storytelling, and features that make users feel valued.

Duolingo’s gamification

Duolingo motivates users with streaks, rewards, and personalized messages, making language learning more engaging and memorable. This long-term emotional connection keeps users coming back.

Why It Matters in UX Design

By designing with these three levels of emotional processing in mind, UX professionals can create products that not only function well but also resonate with users on a deeper level. A successful UX design doesn’t just meet practical needs,  it also delights, engages, and leaves a lasting positive impression.