AUTONOMOUS SENSORY MERIDIAN RESPONSE ( ASMR ) : A FLOW-LIKE MENTAL STATE | BARRATT & DAVIS

|| ABSTRACT || Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response ( ASMR ) is a previously unstudied sensory phenomenon , in which individuals experience a tingling , static-like sensation across the scalp , back of the neck and at times further areas in response to specific triggering audio and visual stimuli .

This sensation is widely reported to be accompanied by feelings of relaxation and well-being .

The current study identifies several common triggers used to achieve ASMR , including whispering , personal attention , crisp sounds and slow movements .

Data obtained also illustrates temporary improvements in symptoms of depression and chronic pain in those who engage in ASMR . A high prevalence of synaesthesia ( 5.9% ) within the sample suggests a possible link between ASMR and synaesthesia , similar to that of misophonia .

Links between number of effective triggers and heightened flow state suggest that flow may be necessary to achieve sensations associated with ASMR .

|| OBTAINING FLOW STATE ||

Individuals who scored highly on flow measures reported regularly experiencing a higher number of triggers . This suggests that those who are able to more readily experience flow state during ASMR media consumption are susceptible to more frequent ASMR experiences during their sessions .

Many ASMR videos show individuals in highly focused states or engaged in repetitive tasks . The behaviour of performers during these types of videos often resembles that of someone in flow state — confidently and accurately executing precise tasks .

It may be that ASMR is brought about by obtaining a flow-like state , which is in part facilitated by witnessing others in such a state . Similar transference of state from performers to audience have been observed in studies probing the role of mirror neurons . Higher levels of flow may in turn facilitate triggers to be obtained , as could be indicated by results of this study .

|| CONCLUSIONS ||

We have provided the first investigation into the phenomenon of autonomic sensory meridian response ( ASMR ) .

ASMR can be induced , in those who are susceptible , by a fairly consistent set of triggers .

Given the reported benefits of ASMR in improving mood and pain symptoms , we suggest that ASMR warrants further investigation as a potential therapeutic measure similar to that of meditation and mindfulness .

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