Can the Reason For Your Divorce Be "In Your Head?"

 Posted on July 23, 2019 in Divorce

There are many potential causes for divorce, ranging from infidelity, constant arguments, or financial stress to a couple simply not liking each other anymore. Sometimes, the littlest things your partner does can turn into big problems, especially if they involve passive aggression and a lack of proper communication. But what if the actual cause for a relationship's breakdown was more than miscommunication and instead was neurologically-based? Studies have found that a condition known as misophonia can turn your partner’s pet peeves into your most irritating and unlivable nightmare.

Misophonia Explained

Misophonia is a neurological condition in which a person has an extreme reaction to everyday sounds. To many people with this condition, the most common annoyance is hearing another person chew their food; however, those with misophonia can be bothered by nail-biting, scratching, and even certain breathing noises. Slurping, sipping, and smacking are also irritable noises to those who suffer from the disease. This makes it difficult to enjoy dinner with one's partner or lay down next to them, especially if the natural noises a person makes lead to pain for reasons that are hard to understand.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, misophonia affects nearly 20% of the population. This number is likely low, since the condition is underdiagnosed. The exact cause of misophonia is unknown, but neuroscientists have a theory that it may involve an abnormal connection in the brain between the limbic system, autonomic nervous system, and auditory cortex. The limbic system controls emotions, the autonomic nervous system is in charge of flight or fight responses, and the auditory cortex controls hearing. Most people who have misophonia have extra sensitive hearing, causing their discomfort. 

If you or your partner have misophonia, fights can be triggered by regular, everyday sounds. Stress and tension can escalate small fights into larger unresolvable arguments. To remedy this issue, you must first acknowledge the condition, and then both spouses can work to address and overcome it. Misophonia can be fixed with tinnitus retraining therapy and cognitive behavior therapy.

Contact an Oakland County Divorce Attorney

Regardless of the reasoning behind your divorce, it is important to have proper legal support. If you are going through a divorce and have questions, our qualified Novi, MI divorce lawyers will review your case and listen to your concerns, and we will provide you with representation throughout the divorce process. Elkouri Heath, PLC prides itself on its thorough family law services. Contact us at 248-344-9700 today for a free consultation.

Source: 

https://www.fatherly.com/health-science/misophonia-chewing-sounds-ruin-family-dinner-marriage/