The co-occurrence of Alice in Wonderland syndrome and autonomous sensory meridian response

Abstract

Alice in Wonderland syndrome (AIWS) is a perceptual disorder reported to affect 1–3 per cent of the population, usually in childhood. Autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) is associated with similar symptoms to AIWS, reported into adulthood. ASMR is also thought to stem from a heightened sensitivity to external stimuli. Despite similarities, there has been limited research investigating the link between these two phenomena. We sought to establish a link between AIWS and ASMR. Our findings show an increased presence of AIWS symptoms amongst a population who are aware of experiencing ASMR. We described a predictive relationship between the visual symptoms of AIWS and the age of onset of ASMR. ASMR has an increasing presence and is suggested as an intervention for a range of disorders. Despite this, there remains little understanding of its causation. These findings provide an important basis for establishing the causation of ASMR as well as furthering understanding of AIWS.