Binaural Sound in ASMR-inducing Media and Wellbeing

An experience known as Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) is attributed to a series of physiological and psychological responses to sensorial stimuli such as whispering, tapping, and scratching. This term has gained popularity through social media platforms, where content producers share videos that include these types of sound triggers. Scientists have started exploring potential causes and benefits of this experience in people’s wellbeing, because users report finding ASMR-inducing media helpful to cope with stress and decrease mild mental disorders including anxiety, depression and insomnia. It has been observed that ASMRtists, as these media producers are commonly referred to, frequently use binaural microphones in their content production. However, there is scarce evidence that suggests that the use of binaural sound might be related to potentially stronger ASMR experiences, thus more health benefits. This tutorial presents an analysis of common triggers and diverse sound formats found in ASMR-inducing videos, as well as links to wellbeing indicators through user experience.