What is autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR)? A narrative review and comparative analysis of related phenomena

Aidan Mahady, Marcel Takac, Alexander De Foe

Research output: Contribution to journalReview ArticleResearchpeer-review

5 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

A narrative review of autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) was carried out. Definitional factors relevant to ASMR were canvassed. Related, but distinctly unique, sensorial phenomena, including frisson, synaesthesia, and misophonia were considered. Finally, the status of literature with respect to clinical outcomes, individual differences, and current research applications was evaluated. ASMR is a nascent phenomenon that has rapidly progressed in scope and depth of study throughout the past decade; a notable shift from brief-form studies to an increase in formalised trials is noted. Yet, critical questions remain unaddressed, including expectancy and placebo effects, that future research should interrogate.

Original languageEnglish
Article number103477
Number of pages18
JournalConsciousness and Cognition
Volume109
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2023

Keywords

  • ASMR
  • Autonomous sensory meridian response
  • Flow state
  • Frisson
  • Functional connectivity
  • Misophonia
  • Relaxation
  • Synesthesia

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