The Proximity Prediction Hypothesis: How predictive coding of CT-touch explains Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Acoustics

Background:

• Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) is a subjective sensory experience characterized by tingling sensations, often linked to reduced anxiety and improved sleep.
• Existing research lacks a comprehensive neural mechanism explaining ASMR's subjective effects and therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate the Proximity Prediction Hypothesis (PPH), a predictive coding model for ASMR's neural underpinnings.
• To investigate the relationship between ASMR pleasantness, arousal, and the intensity of tingling sensations.
• To explore ASMR's connection to neurovisceral integration and predict measurable physiological markers.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Proximity Prediction Hypothesis (PPH) based on predictive coding principles.
• A subjective-experience survey (N=64) comparing ASMR-labelled stimuli with control conditions.
• Analysis of pleasantness and arousal ratings in relation to tingle presence and intensity.

Main Results:

• ASMR stimuli were rated significantly more pleasant and slightly more arousing than controls.
• Subjective pleasantness strongly predicted both the presence and intensity of ASMR tingles.
• Findings support PPH's claim that hedonic value, not sympathetic activation, drives the somatosensory response.

Conclusions:

• The Proximity Prediction Hypothesis (PPH) offers a unified, testable framework for ASMR's neural mechanisms.
• PPH integrates auditory proximity, touch anticipation, and autonomic regulation, explaining ASMR's therapeutic benefits.
• This model predicts measurable CNS-ANS markers and suggests potential applications for anxiety and sleep disorder interventions.