The aversion to the sound of chewing is a relatively common phenomenon known as misophonia, which means "hatred of sound." Misophonia is characterized by a strong emotional reaction, such as anger or disgust, to certain sounds, particularly those associated with eating, breathing, or repetitive movements.
The exact causes of misophonia are not yet fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the way the brain processes sound and emotions. People with misophonia may have an overactive limbic system, which is responsible for processing emotions, and an underactive prefrontal cortex, which is involved in decision-making and self-control.
The sound of chewing, in particular, may trigger a strong emotional response because it is a repetitive and unpredictable sound that can be difficult to ignore. It can also be associated with other negative experiences, such as a traumatic event or a particularly unpleasant dining experience.
If you find that your aversion to the sound of chewing is interfering with your daily life, it may be helpful to seek the guidance of a mental health professional who can help you develop coping strategies and manage your emotional responses to trigger sounds.