Sensory determinants of the autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR): understanding the triggers.
Emma L Barratt, Charles J. Spence, Nick J Davis
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 130 |
| Population | People who self-report experiencing ASMR |
| Keywords | Asmr Flow state Misophonia Multisensory Synaesthesia Trigger |
| Key findings | Lower-pitched, complex sounds and slow-paced, detail-focused videos were reported as especially effective ASMR triggers, whereas background music inhibited the sensation for many respondents. The authors propose these multisensory findings can guide the design of media for ASMR induction. |
Abstract
The autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) is an atypical sensory phenomenon involving electrostatic-like tingling sensations in response to certain sensory, primarily audio-visual, stimuli. The current study used an online questionnaire, completed by 130 people who self-reported experiencing ASMR. We aimed to extend preliminary investigations into the experience, and establish key multisensory factors contributing to the successful induction of ASMR through online media. Aspects such as timing and trigger load, atmosphere, and characteristics of ASMR content, ideal spatial distance from various types of stimuli, visual characteristics, context and use of ASMR triggers, and audio preferences are explored. Lower-pitched, complex sounds were found to be especially effective triggers, as were slow-paced, detail-focused videos. Conversely, background music inhibited the sensation for many respondents. These results will help in designing media for ASMR induction.
Citations in the library
Cited by 3
- Unusual experiences and their association with metacognition: investigating ASMR and Tulpamancy Cognitive Neuropsychiatry November 8, 2021
- Differences in brain functional connectivity between autonomous sensory meridian response and classical music. Frontiers in Neuroscience 2026
- Does ASMR propensity reflect a mentally flexible mindset? Exploring the relationship between ASMR propensity, transliminality, emotional contagion, schizotypal traits, roleplaying ability, and creativity. Consciousness and Cognition August 1, 2023
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