Prevalence and Demographic Influences of Misokinesia and Misophonia in Adults in India

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Misophonia, characterized by aversive reactions to specific sounds, and misokinesia, involving similar reactions to repetitive visual stimuli, are sensory processing disorders with profound impacts on affected individuals. Methods:: The study used a cross-sectional survey design and included 450 adults (240 females and 210 males) aged 18-50 years, recruited from various regions across India. Data were collected through an online survey that included demographic information and standardized questionnaires: the Misophonia Assessment Questionnaire (MAQ) and the Misokinesia Assessment Questionnaire (MkAQ). Participants who indicated symptoms rated the severity of their experiences. Results:: The prevalence of misophonia was found to be 16.89%, and misokinesia was 5.34%. Co-occurrence of both conditions was observed in 8.89% of participants. Prevalence rates were higher among females across both conditions. A moderate negative correlation was identified between symptom severity and age, indicating that younger adults experience greater sensitivity to both misophonia and misokinesia. Conclusions:: The findings reveal a notable prevalence of misophonia and misokinesia among Indian adults, with higher rates observed in younger individuals and females. The co-occurrence of these conditions suggests shared mechanisms and emphasizes the need for targeted, culturally relevant assessment and intervention approaches. These results underscore the importance of understanding sensory processing disorders within diverse cultural contexts, providing foundational insights for clinical practice and future research in India. Misophonia Misokinesia Prevalence Adults India Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Introduction Misophonia and misokinesia, though relatively new in sensory processing research, profoundly affect the lives of individuals who experience them. Misophonia, which describes strong aversive reactions to particular sounds, was first systematically explored by Jastreboff and Jastreboff in 2001 [1]. Misokinesia, a related but distinct condition, involves similarly intense reactions to specific visual stimuli, especially repetitive movements. Common triggers, such as chewing sounds or someone fidgeting with their hands, are omnipresent in daily life, which often leads to significant distress and impairment in affected individuals [2,3]. Estimates of the prevalence of these conditions vary. Misophonia is thought to affect approximately 6% to 20% of the general population, while misokinesia has been reported in 20% to as high as 80% of individuals, depending on the study and specific population examined [4,5]. Surveys at Mysore University, found high prevalence and distress levels among students, with a substantial portion experiencing co-occurring conditions like anxiety and hyperacusis, reflecting the condition's widespread impact [6,7]. Despite the prevalence of both conditions, studies on their co-occurrence are limited. Early evidence suggests, however, that these conditions may frequently co-occur, as individuals who are sensitive to certain sounds often report similar discomfort in response to repetitive visual stimuli. This overlap hints at a shared underlying mechanism, possibly involving heightened sensory sensitivity and difficulty in habituating to specific stimuli [3]. Misophonia and misokinesia are increasingly recognized sensory processing disorders that can significantly impact daily functioning. Misophonia, characterized by strong aversive reactions to specific sounds, was first studied by Jastreboff and Jastreboff (2001) [1] and has since been explored in various cultural contexts, including India. Research in Indian universities has shown notable misophonia prevalence and impact. For instance, recent studies among students at Mysore University, Amity University, and in a national survey of college students have documented the condition's high prevalence and its association with significant emotional distress and functional impairments [6-8]. Misokinesia, while less examined, involves similar reactions to visual stimuli like repetitive movements and also impacts a broad demographic range [3,5]. Global prevalence studies estimate that misophonia affects approximately 6-20% of the population. In India, studies report comparable figures, with recent surveys at Mysore and Amity Universities finding that a substantial proportion of students experience misophonia symptoms, often alongside other sensory sensitivities, such as hyperacusis, and mental health issues like anxiety [6 -9]. This overlap suggests a potentially shared sensory pathway that makes individuals vulnerable to various aversive stimuli [3,5]. Demographic factors such as age and gender significantly influence susceptibility to these disorders. Younger individuals, who may have heightened sensory reactivity, and females, who often report greater sensitivity levels, appear particularly vulnerable to misophonia and misokinesia [10,11]. Cultural and contextual factors further shape the manifestation of these disorders; intab India, for instance, audiologists highlight growing awareness but stress the need for systematic approaches to diagnosis and intervention that are suited to India’s diverse population [6,7]. This study aims to bridge this gap by examining the prevalence and co-occurrence of misophonia and misokinesia among adults in India, focusing on the influence of demographic variables such as age and gender. Using standardized assessment measures, this research seeks to contribute valuable insights to the field, enhancing both clinical understanding and management approaches. By addressing how these disorders affect individuals in a diverse cultural context, the study could support the development of targeted interventions and inform global best practices in sensory processing disorder management. The findings may not only advance research but also promote awareness and support for affected individuals, underscoring the importance of inclusive, culturally sensitive approaches in mental health and sensory processing research. Methods Participants and Study Design The study, aimed at assessing the prevalence of misokinesia and misophonia among adults in India, was conducted in Mysore using a cross-sectional survey design. Researchers recruited 450 participants, comprising 210 males and 240 females, representing diverse regions across India. All participants were adults aged between 18 and 50 years and reported normal hearing with no history of otological complaints, meeting the study’s inclusion criteria. Individuals with known auditory or visual disorders, cognitive impairments, or primary complaints like hearing loss were excluded to maintain a focused sample. Each participant provided informed consent to participate in the study, which followed ethical guidelines on human subject research. Data Collection and Procedure Data was collected via an online survey distributed through Google Forms. Participants completed standardized questionnaires to assess misokinesia and misophonia symptoms, covering aspects like sensitivity to specific visual or auditory stimuli, emotional and physiological responses, and the impact of these sensitivities on daily functioning. Demographic information—such as age, gender, region, and educational level—was also recorded to analyze demographic correlations with the prevalence of misophonia and misokinesia. Assessment of Misophonia Participants were first asked a yes/no question on whether they experienced negative emotional or physiological responses to specific auditory triggers. Those who reported misophonia symptoms were administered the Misophonia Assessment Questionnaire (MAQ) by M. Johnson [12]. This questionnaire consists of 21 items related to various auditory scenarios and triggers, with participants rating the severity of their symptoms on a scale from 0 to 3, where 0 represents "not at all" and 3 represents "almost all the time." Scores were classified into five severity zones: Subclinical (0-11), Mild (12-24), Moderate (25-37), Severe (38-50), and Extreme (51-63). Assessment of Misokinesia Similarly, participants were asked if they experienced discomfort in response to specific visual triggers, such as repetitive movements. Those who reported symptoms of misokinesia completed the Misokinesia Assessment Questionnaire (MkAQ) [3], which included 21 questions about various visual triggers and their impact on emotional and physiological responses. The severity was also rated on a 0-to-3 scale, with the same five-zone classification applied: Subclinical (0-11), Mild (12-24), Moderate (25-37), Severe (38-50), and Extreme (51-63). This scoring method helped in understanding the distribution and severity of misokinesia across the sample. Statistical analyses The data was analyzed using the IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 26.0 (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp). Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence of misokinesia, misophonia, and the co-occurrence of both conditions within the sample population. Further statistical analysis examined any significant relationships between sociodemographic variables (such as age, gender, and education) and the prevalence or severity of misophonia and misokinesia. Results The study found that 16.89% of participants experienced misophonia, highlighting its prevalence among Indian adults with normal hearing. Misokinesia, while less common, was present in 5.34% of participants, reflecting aversive responses to repetitive visual stimuli like fidgeting. Additionally, 8.89% of the sample experienced both misophonia and misokinesia, suggesting a moderate co-occurrence of these sensory processing disorders. Gender-based analysis indicated that females exhibited higher prevalence rates than males for misophonia, misokinesia, and the co-occurrence of both conditions. This finding aligns with existing literature that suggests females may be more susceptible to sensory processing sensitivities related to both auditory and visual stimuli. Correlation analysis further provided insights into the relationship between participant age and severity of misophonia and misokinesia symptoms. As illustrated in Figure 1 , Spearman’s correlation coefficient revealed a moderate negative correlation between Misophonia Assessment Questionnaire (MAQ) scores and age, indicating that younger adults tended to report higher misophonia severity than older adults. Similarly, Figure 2 shows a moderate negative correlation between Misokinesia Assessment Questionnaire (MkAQ) scores and age, suggesting that sensitivity to visual triggers also decreases with age. Discussion The prevalence rates of misophonia (16.89%) and misokinesia (5.34%) observed in this study align with existing research, highlighting the widespread nature of these sensory processing disorders among various populations. Studies conducted in India, such as those among university students at Mysore and Amity University, report similar prevalence rates for misophonia, confirming its significant impact on mental well-being and daily functioning [6,8]. Other studies document that misophonia affects between 6% and 20% of the population, while misokinesia may impact between 20% and 80%, depending on sample demographics and assessment tools used [4,5]. These findings reinforce that while misophonia might be more common, both conditions lead to notable discomfort and impairment. This study found higher prevalence rates of both misophonia and misokinesia among females, which is consistent with existing literature indicating that females often experience heightened sensory sensitivities [11]. This gender disparity could be attributed to a combination of biological factors, such as hormonal differences, and psychological and sociocultural influences that may exacerbate sensory sensitivity in females [2,4]. The documented patterns suggest a need for gender-sensitive assessment and intervention strategies, as females may encounter distinct sensory triggers or symptoms requiring tailored therapeutic approaches. The study also identified a co-occurrence rate of 8.89% for misophonia and misokinesia, suggesting that the conditions may share underlying mechanisms. This overlap, observed in other studies, indicates that individuals experiencing both disorders often face greater distress and functional limitations [3,5]. Research highlights that those with concurrent auditory and visual sensitivities could benefit from integrated assessment tools that address the interplay of these sensitivities to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning [7]. Additionally, the study’s correlation analysis found a moderate negative relationship between age and severity of both misophonia and misokinesia symptoms, indicating that younger adults experience more intense symptoms. This finding aligns with the suggestion that sensory sensitivity and emotional regulation develop with age, making younger individuals more susceptible to aversive reactions due to less-developed coping mechanisms [10]. Given this trend, targeted intervention efforts are warranted for younger adults, equipping them with strategies to better manage their sensory aversions over time [6,7]. Conclusion This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence and characteristics of misophonia and misokinesia among Indian adults with normal hearing. The findings reveal that misophonia affects approximately 16.89% of the population, while misokinesia impacts around 5.34%, with a notable co-occurrence rate of 8.89%. These rates align with prior research documenting the widespread nature of these sensory processing disorders, underscoring their impact on individuals who experience heightened aversion to specific auditory and visual stimuli (Edelstein et al., 2013; Rouw & Erfanian, 2018). Gender differences observed in the study, with higher prevalence among females, support previous findings that females may have greater susceptibility to sensory sensitivities. This gender disparity could be due to biological, psychological, or sociocultural factors that warrant further exploration. Additionally, the moderate negative correlation between symptom severity and age suggests that younger adults are more severely affected, potentially reflecting heightened sensory sensitivity and less-developed coping mechanisms in younger populations. These findings highlight the importance of targeted assessment and intervention approaches. Tailored strategies should be developed to address the specific needs of younger adults and females, who may be more vulnerable to these conditions. Moreover, the co-occurrence of misophonia and misokinesia suggests that integrated assessment tools and therapeutic approaches could improve diagnosis and management for individuals experiencing both disorders. By shedding light on demographic patterns and symptom interactions, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of sensory processing disorders within the Indian context, ultimately supporting more inclusive, culturally relevant mental health practices. Declarations Ethical approval Compliance with ethical guidelines In the present study, all the procedures were carried out on humans using non-invasive techniques, adhering to the guidelines of the Ethics Approval Committee of the institute. The AIISH ethical committee approved the study method for bio-behavioral research. References 1. Jastreboff MM, Jastreboff PJ. Components of decreased sound tolerance: hyperacusis, misophonia, and phonophobia. Ithaca (NY): American Tinnitus Association; 2001. 2. Schröder A, Vulink N, Denys D. Misophonia: diagnostic criteria for a new psychiatric disorder. PLoS One. 2013;8(1). doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0054706. 3. Jaswal P, Yaeger J, Van Kampen E. Misokinesia: a newfound sensitivity to visual stimuli. Curr Dir Psychol Sci. 2021;30(3):281-7. doi: 10.1177/09637214211008109. 4. Edelstein M, Brang D, Rouw R, Ramachandran VS. Misophonia: physiological investigations and case descriptions. Front Hum Neurosci. 2013;7:296. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2013.00296. 5. Rouw R, Erfanian M. A large-scale study of misophonia. J Clin Psychol. 2018;74(3):453-79. doi: 10.1002/jclp.22500. 6. Sujeeth PR, Hanji R, Karupaiah K, Prabhu P. Estimation of prevalence of hyperacusis in high school students of Mysore District. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2024;1-4. doi: 10.1007/s12070-024-03267-7. 7. Prabhu P, Hanji R, Karupaiah K. Awareness and perspectives of audiologists on assessment and management of misophonia in India. J Otolaryngol Neurotol. 2023;30(2):89-95. doi: 10.1016/j.otoneuro.2023.10.004. 8. Yadav N, Aryal S, Gupta DK, Kaushik C, Prabhu P. Prevalence of misophonia and its characteristics among Amity University students in India. Indian J Otolaryngol. 2024;30(2):90-5. doi: 10.1007/s12070-024-03268-8. 9. Patel NM, Fameen R, Shafeek N, Prabhu P. Prevalence of Misophonia in College going students of India: a preliminary Survey. Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery. 2023 Jun;75(2):374-8. 10. Schröder, A. E. (2017). Diagnosis, neural mechanisms and treatment of misophonia. Journal of Affective Disorders , 217 , 289-294. 11. Jager I, De Koning P, Houtveen J, De Jong P. Gender differences in misophonia and the potential role of hormonal influences. J Affect Disord. 2020;273:151-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.04.021. 12. Johnson M, Dozier T. Misophonia assessment questionnaire (MAQ). Revised by Dozier T. Livermore, CA: Misophonia Institute. 2013. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-5659312","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":565698670,"identity":"cd4ca486-0cfe-4732-a94e-b85e36f3bb34","order_by":0,"name":"Prashanth Prabhu","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Department of Audiology, All India Institute of Speech and Hearing, Mysore,","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Prashanth","middleName":"","lastName":"Prabhu","suffix":""},{"id":565698671,"identity":"3986e647-066a-419c-b1a8-4a331317aeb7","order_by":1,"name":"Sweety Chauhan","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"All India 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2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":67308,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eScatter plot showing the correlation between the age and Misokinesia Assessment Questionnaire (MkAQ) scores\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Figure2.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5659312/v1/94a82500f4eaa30436a743f1.png"},{"id":99795638,"identity":"942f9205-72f2-4dca-a020-406f354cca18","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-08 13:39:07","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":390607,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5659312/v1/de2642fc-b02e-4926-9570-22a3e791313d.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003ePrevalence and Demographic Influences of Misokinesia and Misophonia in Adults in India\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eMisophonia and misokinesia, though relatively new in sensory processing research, profoundly affect the lives of individuals who experience them. Misophonia, which describes strong aversive reactions to particular sounds, was first systematically explored by Jastreboff and Jastreboff in 2001 [1]. Misokinesia, a related but distinct condition, involves similarly intense reactions to specific visual stimuli, especially repetitive movements. Common triggers, such as chewing sounds or someone fidgeting with their hands, are omnipresent in daily life, which often leads to significant distress and impairment in affected individuals [2,3].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEstimates of the prevalence of these conditions vary. Misophonia is thought to affect approximately 6% to 20% of the general population, while misokinesia has been reported in 20% to as high as 80% of individuals, depending on the study and specific population examined [4,5]. Surveys at Mysore University, found high prevalence and distress levels among students, with a substantial portion experiencing co-occurring conditions like anxiety and hyperacusis, reflecting the condition's widespread impact [6,7]. Despite the prevalence of both conditions, studies on their co-occurrence are limited. Early evidence suggests, however, that these conditions may frequently co-occur, as individuals who are sensitive to certain sounds often report similar discomfort in response to repetitive visual stimuli. This overlap hints at a shared underlying mechanism, possibly involving heightened sensory sensitivity and difficulty in habituating to specific stimuli [3].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMisophonia and misokinesia are increasingly recognized sensory processing disorders that can significantly impact daily functioning. Misophonia, characterized by strong aversive reactions to specific sounds, was first studied by Jastreboff and Jastreboff (2001) [1] and has since been explored in various cultural contexts, including India. Research in Indian universities has shown notable misophonia prevalence and impact. For instance, recent studies among students at Mysore University, Amity University, and in a national survey of college students have documented the condition's high prevalence and its association with significant emotional distress and functional impairments [6-8]. Misokinesia, while less examined, involves similar reactions to visual stimuli like repetitive movements and also impacts a broad demographic range [3,5].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGlobal prevalence studies estimate that misophonia affects approximately 6-20% of the population. In India, studies report comparable figures, with recent surveys at Mysore and Amity Universities finding that a substantial proportion of students experience misophonia symptoms, often alongside other sensory sensitivities, such as hyperacusis, and mental health issues like anxiety [6 -9]. This overlap suggests a potentially shared sensory pathway that makes individuals vulnerable to various aversive stimuli [3,5].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDemographic factors such as age and gender significantly influence susceptibility to these disorders. Younger individuals, who may have heightened sensory reactivity, and females, who often report greater sensitivity levels, appear particularly vulnerable to misophonia and misokinesia [10,11]. Cultural and contextual factors further shape the manifestation of these disorders; intab India, for instance, audiologists highlight growing awareness but stress the need for systematic approaches to diagnosis and intervention that are suited to India’s diverse population [6,7].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study aims to bridge this gap by examining the prevalence and co-occurrence of misophonia and misokinesia among adults in India, focusing on the influence of demographic variables such as age and gender. Using standardized assessment measures, this research seeks to contribute valuable insights to the field, enhancing both clinical understanding and management approaches. By addressing how these disorders affect individuals in a diverse cultural context, the study could support the development of targeted interventions and inform global best practices in sensory processing disorder management. The findings may not only advance research but also promote awareness and support for affected individuals, underscoring the importance of inclusive, culturally sensitive approaches in mental health and sensory processing research.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methods","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eParticipants and Study Design\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study, aimed at assessing the prevalence of misokinesia and misophonia among adults in India, was conducted in Mysore using a cross-sectional survey design. Researchers recruited 450 participants, comprising 210 males and 240 females, representing diverse regions across India. All participants were adults aged between 18 and 50 years and reported normal hearing with no history of otological complaints, meeting the study’s inclusion criteria. Individuals with known auditory or visual disorders, cognitive impairments, or primary complaints like hearing loss were excluded to maintain a focused sample. Each participant provided informed consent to participate in the study, which followed ethical guidelines on human subject research.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eData Collection and Procedure\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eData was collected via an online survey distributed through Google Forms. Participants completed standardized questionnaires to assess misokinesia and misophonia symptoms, covering aspects like sensitivity to specific visual or auditory stimuli, emotional and physiological responses, and the impact of these sensitivities on daily functioning. Demographic information—such as age, gender, region, and educational level—was also recorded to analyze demographic correlations with the prevalence of misophonia and misokinesia.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAssessment of Misophonia\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticipants were first asked a yes/no question on whether they experienced negative emotional or physiological responses to specific auditory triggers. Those who reported misophonia symptoms were administered the Misophonia Assessment Questionnaire (MAQ) by M. Johnson [12]. This questionnaire consists of 21 items related to various auditory scenarios and triggers, with participants rating the severity of their symptoms on a scale from 0 to 3, where 0 represents \"not at all\" and 3 represents \"almost all the time.\" Scores were classified into five severity zones: Subclinical (0-11), Mild (12-24), Moderate (25-37), Severe (38-50), and Extreme (51-63).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAssessment of Misokinesia\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimilarly, participants were asked if they experienced discomfort in response to specific visual triggers, such as repetitive movements. Those who reported symptoms of misokinesia completed the Misokinesia Assessment Questionnaire (MkAQ) [3], which included 21 questions about various visual triggers and their impact on emotional and physiological responses. The severity was also rated on a 0-to-3 scale, with the same five-zone classification applied: Subclinical (0-11), Mild (12-24), Moderate (25-37), Severe (38-50), and Extreme (51-63). This scoring method helped in understanding the distribution and severity of misokinesia across the sample.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStatistical analyses\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe data was analyzed using the IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 26.0 (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp). Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence of misokinesia, misophonia, and the co-occurrence of both conditions within the sample population. Further statistical analysis examined any significant relationships between sociodemographic variables (such as age, gender, and education) and the prevalence or severity of misophonia and misokinesia.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe study found that 16.89% of participants experienced misophonia, highlighting its prevalence among Indian adults with normal hearing. Misokinesia, while less common, was present in 5.34% of participants, reflecting aversive responses to repetitive visual stimuli like fidgeting. Additionally, 8.89% of the sample experienced both misophonia and misokinesia, suggesting a moderate co-occurrence of these sensory processing disorders.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGender-based analysis indicated that females exhibited higher prevalence rates than males for misophonia, misokinesia, and the co-occurrence of both conditions. This finding aligns with existing literature that suggests females may be more susceptible to sensory processing sensitivities related to both auditory and visual stimuli.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCorrelation analysis further provided insights into the relationship between participant age and severity of misophonia and misokinesia symptoms. As illustrated in \u003cstrong\u003eFigure 1\u003c/strong\u003e, Spearman’s correlation coefficient revealed a moderate negative correlation between Misophonia Assessment Questionnaire (MAQ) scores and age, indicating that younger adults tended to report higher misophonia severity than older adults. Similarly, \u003cstrong\u003eFigure 2\u003c/strong\u003e shows a moderate negative correlation between Misokinesia Assessment Questionnaire (MkAQ) scores and age, suggesting that sensitivity to visual triggers also decreases with age.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe prevalence rates of misophonia (16.89%) and misokinesia (5.34%) observed in this study align with existing research, highlighting the widespread nature of these sensory processing disorders among various populations. Studies conducted in India, such as those among university students at Mysore and Amity University, report similar prevalence rates for misophonia, confirming its significant impact on mental well-being and daily functioning [6,8]. Other studies document that misophonia affects between 6% and 20% of the population, while misokinesia may impact between 20% and 80%, depending on sample demographics and assessment tools used [4,5]. These findings reinforce that while misophonia might be more common, both conditions lead to notable discomfort and impairment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study found higher prevalence rates of both misophonia and misokinesia among females, which is consistent with existing literature indicating that females often experience heightened sensory sensitivities [11]. This gender disparity could be attributed to a combination of biological factors, such as hormonal differences, and psychological and sociocultural influences that may exacerbate sensory sensitivity in females [2,4]. The documented patterns suggest a need for gender-sensitive assessment and intervention strategies, as females may encounter distinct sensory triggers or symptoms requiring tailored therapeutic approaches.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study also identified a co-occurrence rate of 8.89% for misophonia and misokinesia, suggesting that the conditions may share underlying mechanisms. This overlap, observed in other studies, indicates that individuals experiencing both disorders often face greater distress and functional limitations [3,5]. Research highlights that those with concurrent auditory and visual sensitivities could benefit from integrated assessment tools that address the interplay of these sensitivities to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning [7].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdditionally, the study’s correlation analysis found a moderate negative relationship between age and severity of both misophonia and misokinesia symptoms, indicating that younger adults experience more intense symptoms. This finding aligns with the suggestion that sensory sensitivity and emotional regulation develop with age, making younger individuals more susceptible to aversive reactions due to less-developed coping mechanisms [10]. Given this trend, targeted intervention efforts are warranted for younger adults, equipping them with strategies to better manage their sensory aversions over time [6,7].\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study provides valuable insights into the prevalence and characteristics of misophonia and misokinesia among Indian adults with normal hearing. The findings reveal that misophonia affects approximately 16.89% of the population, while misokinesia impacts around 5.34%, with a notable co-occurrence rate of 8.89%. These rates align with prior research documenting the widespread nature of these sensory processing disorders, underscoring their impact on individuals who experience heightened aversion to specific auditory and visual stimuli (Edelstein et al., 2013; Rouw \u0026amp; Erfanian, 2018).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGender differences observed in the study, with higher prevalence among females, support previous findings that females may have greater susceptibility to sensory sensitivities. This gender disparity could be due to biological, psychological, or sociocultural factors that warrant further exploration. Additionally, the moderate negative correlation between symptom severity and age suggests that younger adults are more severely affected, potentially reflecting heightened sensory sensitivity and less-developed coping mechanisms in younger populations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese findings highlight the importance of targeted assessment and intervention approaches. Tailored strategies should be developed to address the specific needs of younger adults and females, who may be more vulnerable to these conditions. Moreover, the co-occurrence of misophonia and misokinesia suggests that integrated assessment tools and therapeutic approaches could improve diagnosis and management for individuals experiencing both disorders. By shedding light on demographic patterns and symptom interactions, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of sensory processing disorders within the Indian context, ultimately supporting more inclusive, culturally relevant mental health practices.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003eEthical approval Compliance with ethical guidelines In the present study, all the procedures were carried out on humans using non-invasive techniques, adhering to the guidelines of the Ethics Approval Committee of the institute. The AIISH ethical committee approved the study method for bio-behavioral research.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003cp\u003e1. Jastreboff MM, Jastreboff PJ. Components of decreased sound tolerance: hyperacusis, misophonia, and phonophobia. Ithaca (NY): American Tinnitus Association; 2001.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. Schröder A, Vulink N, Denys D. Misophonia: diagnostic criteria for a new psychiatric disorder. PLoS One. 2013;8(1). doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0054706.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. Jaswal P, Yaeger J, Van Kampen E. Misokinesia: a newfound sensitivity to visual stimuli. Curr Dir Psychol Sci. 2021;30(3):281-7. doi: 10.1177/09637214211008109.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4. Edelstein M, Brang D, Rouw R, Ramachandran VS. Misophonia: physiological investigations and case descriptions. Front Hum Neurosci. 2013;7:296. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2013.00296.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;5. Rouw R, Erfanian M. A large-scale study of misophonia. J Clin Psychol. 2018;74(3):453-79. doi: 10.1002/jclp.22500.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e6. Sujeeth PR, Hanji R, Karupaiah K, Prabhu P. Estimation of prevalence of hyperacusis in high school students of Mysore District. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2024;1-4. doi: 10.1007/s12070-024-03267-7.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e7. Prabhu P, Hanji R, Karupaiah K. Awareness and perspectives of audiologists on assessment and management of misophonia in India. J Otolaryngol Neurotol. 2023;30(2):89-95. doi: 10.1016/j.otoneuro.2023.10.004.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e8. Yadav N, Aryal S, Gupta DK, Kaushik C, Prabhu P. Prevalence of misophonia and its characteristics among Amity University students in India. Indian J Otolaryngol. 2024;30(2):90-5. doi: 10.1007/s12070-024-03268-8.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e9. Patel NM, Fameen R, Shafeek N, Prabhu P. Prevalence of Misophonia in College going students of India: a preliminary Survey. Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head \u0026amp; Neck Surgery. 2023 Jun;75(2):374-8.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e10. Schröder, A. E. (2017). Diagnosis, neural mechanisms and treatment of misophonia. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Affective Disorders\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e217\u003c/em\u003e, 289-294.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e11. Jager I, De Koning P, Houtveen J, De Jong P. Gender differences in misophonia and the potential role of hormonal influences. J Affect Disord. 2020;273:151-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.04.021.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e12. Johnson M, Dozier T. Misophonia assessment questionnaire (MAQ). Revised by Dozier T. Livermore, CA: Misophonia Institute. 2013.\u003c/p\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Misophonia, Misokinesia, Prevalence, Adults, India ","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5659312/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5659312/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003ePurpose:: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of misophonia and misokinesia among adults in India, focusing on demographic influences such as age and gender. Misophonia, characterized by aversive reactions to specific sounds, and misokinesia, involving similar reactions to repetitive visual stimuli, are sensory processing disorders with profound impacts on affected individuals.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMethods:: The study used a cross-sectional survey design and included 450 adults (240 females and 210 males) aged 18-50 years, recruited from various regions across India. Data were collected through an online survey that included demographic information and standardized questionnaires: the Misophonia Assessment Questionnaire (MAQ) and the Misokinesia Assessment Questionnaire (MkAQ). Participants who indicated symptoms rated the severity of their experiences.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResults:: The prevalence of misophonia was found to be 16.89%, and misokinesia was 5.34%. Co-occurrence of both conditions was observed in 8.89% of participants. Prevalence rates were higher among females across both conditions. A moderate negative correlation was identified between symptom severity and age, indicating that younger adults experience greater sensitivity to both misophonia and misokinesia.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConclusions:: The findings reveal a notable prevalence of misophonia and misokinesia among Indian adults, with higher rates observed in younger individuals and females. The co-occurrence of these conditions suggests shared mechanisms and emphasizes the need for targeted, culturally relevant assessment and intervention approaches. These results underscore the importance of understanding sensory processing disorders within diverse cultural contexts, providing foundational insights for clinical practice and future research in India.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Prevalence and Demographic Influences of Misokinesia and Misophonia in Adults in India","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-01-06 23:48:09","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5659312/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"5bde78e9-7eaa-47fb-a849-a1f1a7cbb1a7","owner":[],"postedDate":"January 6th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-01-06T23:48:09+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-01-06 23:48:09","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-5659312","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-5659312","identity":"rs-5659312","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}