Avoidance in Misophonia

Key points

Lived experiences offer insights misophonia science has yet to reach.

Misophonic reactions can rake a tremendous toll; avoidance can minimize the effects.

Misophonia research is increasing but still treats avoidance as a pathology.

Like nearly everyone with misophonia , my young adult son avoids sights and sounds that trigger reactions. He removes himself or keeps away. These strategies appear universal. For example, someone triggered by chewing might avoid both a movie theater and a buffet. Avoidance is extremely effective. No trigger, no reaction, no problem. Coping costs no money. People consult neither doctor nor Tarot deck for this informal strategy. Avoidance is ubiquitous in misophonia.

The term misophonia limped into scientific literature in 2001 with a trickle of