Interface Manipulation
Visual Obstruction
The important control exists behind a sticky bar, modal, or conveniently placed enthusiasm.
What is it?
A banner, overlay, sticky element, or animation blocks access to content or controls, often making the commercial action easier than dismissal.
How it works
The pattern changes the cost of thinking. It makes the preferred action immediate, emotionally charged, or visually dominant, while making the more reflective action slower, duller, or easier to doubt.
Visual Example
A simplified specimen designed to make the pattern recognizable at a glance.
Obstructed mobile page
visual specimen
Cancel subscription
Review your plan details.
📱 Download our app
Faster support & notifications.
Obstruction layer: 1/4
Psychology
Real World Example
- A sticky app-install banner covers the reject button.
- A chat widget overlays the cancellation link.
Origin: Mobile web, ecommerce, support widgets, app install prompts, and cookie banners.
Ethical Alternative
Keep critical controls unobstructed and make overlays dismissible, accessible, and proportionate.
Toxicity Meter
Manipulation dimensions