You’ve seen the videos, you’ve heard the sounds, but you just don’t get it! Why is ASMR so popular amongst some people and yet others find it extremely annoying, if not disturbing?
While it’s true that everybody likes different things in this world, ASMR seems to be one of those quite polarizing things – you either love it, or you hate it! Let’s find out why!
ASMR, which stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, has gained significant popularity in recent years. It refers to a tingling sensation that some people experience in response to specific audio or visual stimuli.
These stimuli are often found in ASMR videos, where creators use whispering, tapping, and other sounds to trigger the desired effect. While many individuals find ASMR relaxing and enjoyable, there is a growing number of people who find it annoying. So, why is ASMR so annoying to some?
One of the primary reasons ASMR can be annoying is due to its subjective nature. Not everyone experiences the tingling sensation that ASMR enthusiasts describe. For those who do not experience ASMR, listening to the sounds and whispers in ASMR videos may seem strange and off-putting.
The sounds that are intended to be soothing and calming can be perceived as irritating and grating instead.
Furthermore, the specific triggers used in ASMR videos can also contribute to the annoyance factor. ASMR content creators experiment with various sounds and visual stimuli to elicit the desired response in their audience.
Some popular triggers include tapping on objects, scratching surfaces, or even eating food close to a microphone. While these triggers can be relaxing for some individuals, they can be highly irritating for others. The repetitive nature of certain sounds or the exaggerated intensity can become overwhelming and bothersome rather than soothing.
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Moreover, the performative aspect of ASMR can contribute to the annoyance factor. ASMR videos often feature creators speaking softly or whispering directly into the microphone, emphasizing their mouth sounds.
While this technique is meant to create a sense of intimacy and closeness with the viewer, it can be seen as intrusive and unsettling to those who find personal space important. The exaggerated whispering and the close-up visuals of mouth movements can feel uncomfortable and off-putting, leading to annoyance rather than relaxation.
Another reason why ASMR may be annoying to some individuals is the cultural and societal associations attached to it. ASMR has gained significant attention on social media platforms, and its popularity has led to the rise of a specific community and subculture.
This subculture often has its own jargon, trends, and even controversies. Some people might find this intense focus on ASMR and its community overwhelming or irrelevant to their interests, which can contribute to finding the whole phenomenon annoying.
Furthermore, the repetitive and predictable nature of ASMR videos can also be a source of annoyance. Many ASMR videos follow a similar formula, with creators using the same triggers and techniques in each video.
While this consistency can be comforting for some viewers, others may find it monotonous and dull. The lack of variety and the predictability of ASMR content can wear thin quickly for those who seek more dynamic and engaging experiences.
Lastly, the perception of ASMR as a “fad” or a trend that will eventually fade away can also contribute to its annoyance factor.
Some individuals view ASMR as a passing trend that has been hyped up by social media, and they may find the attention it receives excessive and undeserved. This perception can lead to a dismissal of ASMR as a valid form of entertainment or relaxation, which in turn can contribute to finding it annoying.
So the reasons why ASMR can be annoying to some individuals are multifaceted. The subjective nature of the tingling sensation, the specific triggers used in ASMR videos, the performative aspects, cultural associations, repetitive nature, and the perception of ASMR as a passing trend can all contribute to the annoyance factor.
However, it is important to note that just as ASMR does not appeal to everyone, it brings relaxation and comfort to a significant number of people. Preferences and responses to stimuli can vary greatly from person to person, and what may be annoying to one individual can be enjoyable to another.
So, ultimately, it’s a case of live and let live! If you find ASMR annoying, don’t watch it! But don’t drag it down for the people who really get something out of watching or listening to ASMR videos – let them be and let them enjoy their downtime in peace.