Investigating the Effects of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) Stimulation on the Functional Connectivity of the Default Mode Network

ASMR describes a phenomenon of a perceived tingling caused by visual or auditory stimulation. This sensation can spread from the neck to the scalp and further to the back and the extremities. The triggering sound often consists of acoustic sounds (crackle, whisper, light nail-tapping) or visual images (e.g., someone is combing their hair), leading to a calm and relaxing feeling. Although ASMR is ubiquitous in platforms like "YouTube", there are just a few studies investigating the effects of ASMR. In one of those studies, Smith and colleagues examined the Default Mode Network of 11 subjects with ASMR stimulation and compared the outcome with a control group consisting of 11 subjects. They found reduced functional connectivity in the ASMR group compared to the control group. Furthermore, the connectivity between the occipital, frontal and temporal cortex was increased.

In the present study, fMRI is used to examine the effects of ASMR stimulation in a randomized cross-over design. Half of the subjects (n=14) receive the ASMR stimulation first, and then the control stimulation (audiobook). The other half of the subjects (n=14) listens to the control stimulation (audiobook) first and afterward to the ASMR stimulation. Typical "tingling" triggering sounds are presented via MRI-compatible headphones. Those sounds can consist of different noises (e.g., whisper, scratching, and knocking).

The primary outcome measure is a change in the functional connectivity of the Default Mode Network as a response to the ASMR stimulation.