Speaking of Psychology
Speaking of Psychology
American Psychological Association
When sounds are unbearable: Understanding misophonia, with Heather Hansen, PhD
36 minutes Posted Nov 19, 2025 at 8:30 am.
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For people with misophonia, certain sounds – like chewing, coughing or pen clicking – can trigger strong emotional reactions including anxiety, disgust and rage. Heather Hansen, PhD, director of the Misophonia Research Network, talks about scientists’ evolving understanding of misophonia; what’s happening in the brain when someone hears a trigger sound; whether misophonia is related to other mental health conditions; and advice for those living with misophonia and their friends and family.

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