The method for detecting the configuration of elongated elements includes the steps of providing along a supply line (A) a drawing and/or straightening assembly (4) for an element (2), a detection station (S) downstream of the drawing and/or straightening assembly, a detection assembly (3) comprising at least a first contact member (31, 32, 31a, 31b, 32a, 32b) arranged in the detection station (S) and shaped to interact in contact with the element (2) to force the element (2) along the supply line (A) if the configuration of the element (2) deviates with respect thereto. Said at least first contact member (31, 32, 31a, 31b, 32a, 32b) is associated with a sensor device (33, 33) comprising a sensitive element (35, 35′) configured to emit an signal indicating a stress produced by the contact between said at least first contact member (31, 32, 31a, 31b, 32a, 32b) and the element (2), at least when the element (2) is forced along the supply line (A).