Do intelligence and personality traits influence ASMR perception?

Abstract

The Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) is an atypical perceptual sensory condition in which the presence of specific audiovisual stimuli triggers pleasant static-like tingles in the crown of the head and the back of the neck region that might extend down to other body parts. Individuals who experience ASMR have reported its use to reduce chronic pain, stress, anxiety, alter their mood, aid with insomnia, and as a form of alternative medicine. It is important to explore whether intelligence and personality traits influence these sensory perceptions, to provide the bases for appropriate usage and the types of individuals whom it may be beneficial for. This research aimed to explore whether intelligence and personality traits, with a focus on Neuroticism and Openness to Experience, can predict whether individuals use or perceive ASMR and how these attributes may influence ASMR perception. N = 262 individuals were recruited and completed intelligence measures, broad and facet specific personality trait measures, watched six ASMR inducing videos, and custom ASMR experience questionnaire. We found that 42% of participants who used ASMR did so for relaxation. We concluded that Openness and Neuroticism domains and sub-facets along with CAB can predict the usage and intensity of ASMR perception.