Autonomous sensory meridian response: the phenomenon behind the tingling sensation

Abstract

This thesis investigates why people watch Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response videos. To study this emerging phenomenon, the uses and gratifications theory was used and the survey method was applied. The questionnaire was posted on the web on ASMR forums and Facebook pages. 132 people participated in the survey - all of them reported to be ASMR experiencers. The questionnaire helped examine the needs for sexual pleasure, intimacy, affective and tension release. Overall, the results showed that most of the people do not watch ASMR videos for sexual pleasure or intimacy purposes but rather for relaxation, stress relief, tension release and to help them sleep. This study will contribute to existing literature by giving a further understanding as to why people watch ASMR. There are various studies of this nature but this one has specific focuses which are sexual pleasure, tension release, affective needs and intimacy; and it also looks at the two genders and their difference in preference when it comes to watching ASMR.