The reaction may look abrupt, but sensory strain often builds quietly before anyone sees it. A child may cover their ears, a teenager may leave a gathering, and an adult may lose the ability to follow a discussion.
Instead of asking why the response seems disproportionate, look at what happened beforehand. Note the setting, the sensory input, signs of rising distress, and what helped the person recover. The aim is not to force tolerance. It is to make daily environments more workable and respectful.
