Sept. 17, 2026

Fresh Take: Dr. Thomas Phelan on What Parents Should Know About Misophonia

Do you have a child who flies into a rage over mouth sounds at the dinner table? Are you the person with that intense and involuntary reaction? Dr. Thomas Phelan, author of STOP THAT CHEWING, explains why "misophonia" occurs, why it can be so debilitating, and how triggers can be effectively managed.

Why do ordinary sounds like chewing, slurping, or pen-tapping trigger intense averse reactions in some people? And what does a parent do when it's her own kid screaming at her for having a case of the sniffles?

Clinical psychologist Dr. Thomas W. Phelan, author of STOP THAT CHEWING! joins Amy to explain the neurophysiological underpinnings of misophonia, why it can be so difficult for sufferers and their families, and how to stop this involuntary response from completely disrupting your family life.

Dr. Phelan and Amy discuss:

  • Why anxiety, OCD, ARFID, and other neurological manifestations often accompany misophonia
  • Why siblings and parents (especially fathers) are most likely to be triggers
  • The impact of misophonia on relationships, school, work, and social life
  • Practical ways to manage misophonia triggers and work towards sustainable solutions

Here's where you can find Dr. Phelan:

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What Fresh Hell is co-hosted by Margaret Ables and Amy Wilson.

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