Examining a Phenomenological Model of Embodiment in Unusual Sensory Experiences

Background: Many people subjectively describe unusual sensory experiences (USEs), as having a physical, embodied component. However, outside of somatic delusions, the embodied aspect of USEs is underexamined. Method: This qualitative cross-sectional body-mapping study explored embodiment and its relationship to USEs in a large sample of people from the general population who report USEs. Participants (N = 137) were recruited online. The frequency of USEs across six different sensory modalities, the drawings of related embodied experiences on body maps, written qualitative accounts were analyzed integratively using a multi-method the “follow-the thread” qualitative process to synthesize visual and textual data. Results: Findings showed that embodiment was a core aspect of USEs best described by an integrated embodied-affective-position taking model. This integrated perspective was described in the themes of (i) Location, (ii) Altered bodily perceptions, (iii) Immersive and multisensory experiences, (iv) Intensity and tolerability, (v) Intentionality and loss of control, (vi) Intrinsic emotionality (vii) Meaning-Making.Conclusions: This study demonstrated that USEs involve a salient embodied component that interacts in complex ways with the emotional and cognitive features of USEs. A synthesis of the findings best fits an embodied-affective-position taking model, highlighting potential novel approaches to preventative and active care of individuals who experience distress secondary to experiencing USEs.