BDH-Clinic Hessisch Oldendorf
Hessisch Oldendorf, 31840, Germany
Completed
NCT Number: NCT05266508
Effects of ASMR on the Default Mode Network
This study investigates the effects of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) stimulation on resting-state brain networks. Therefore, two resting-state fMRI scans are measured in healthy adults. Before each fMRI scan, subjects listen either to ASMR typical sounds or an audio-book (randomized cross-over-design). It is expected to find changes in the functional connectivity of the Default Mode Network caused by passive listening to ASMR.
Completed
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Notify MeKey information
Conditions
Age range
18 year–99 year
Sex eligibility
All sexes
Study type
Observational
Primary location
About this study
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.
Who can participate
Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes
Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.
Inclusion criteria
- adults aged 18 to 99
Exclusion criteria
- mental disorders (dementia, depression)
- MRI contraindications
- claustrophobia
Treatment and study plan
Primary outcomes
-
Changed functional connectivity
Time frame: 45 minutes
Functional connectivity is measured using resting-state fMRI
Sponsors and collaborators
Lead sponsor
BDH-Klinik Hessisch Oldendorf
Other
Registry information
Official study title
Investigating the Effects of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) Stimulation on the Functional Connectivity of the Default Mode Network
Important dates
- Study start
- 2022
- Primary completion
- 2022
- Study completion
- 2023
- First posted
- Mar 4, 2022
- Registry last updated
- Aug 7, 2024
OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.
View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.