What Is Autistic Masking?

Autistic masking is the process of camouflaging autistic traits to meet social norms.

Examples of autistic masking may include:

• Forcing eye contact
• Suppressing stimming behaviors
• Mimicking peer speech patterns
• Memorizing social scripts
• Hiding sensory overload

The National Autistic Society describes masking as an effort to appear non-autistic in social situations. Masking may begin in childhood and continue into adulthood.

Why Does Autistic Masking Happen?

Research identifies several reasons for autistic masking:

• Avoiding bullying
• Seeking social acceptance
• Meeting workplace expectations
• Reducing stigma
• Fear of rejection

Autism.org explains that masking often develops as a response to external pressure rather than personal preference. Masking may help individuals navigate certain environments, but it can also create strain.



What Research Says About Autistic Masking

A 2022 review published in Autism Research examined psychological outcomes associated with masking.

Findings suggest that higher levels of autistic masking are associated with:

• Increased anxiety
• Depression
• Emotional exhaustion
• Identity confusion

Researchers note that masking may reduce visible differences in the short term but increase internal stress.

Signs of Autistic Masking

Indicators of autistic masking may include:

• Extreme fatigue after social events
• Delayed emotional reactions
• Perfectionism in social performance
• Sudden emotional shutdown at home
• Difficulty identifying personal preferences

Masking can be difficult to detect because it involves internal effort.

Autistic Masking in Children

Children may begin autistic masking in school settings.

Example behaviors include:

• Watching peers before participating
• Copying classmate behavior
• Suppressing repetitive movements
• Avoiding expressing confusion

Because masking hides outward differences, some children may receive delayed diagnosis. This pattern has been observed particularly in autistic girls, though it occurs across genders.

Case Example: Masking at School

Child profile:

• Age 10
• Performs well academically
• No behavior issues at school
• Frequent emotional outbursts at home

Observation:

• Child reports feeling “exhausted” after school
• Describes copying peer behavior all day

Assessment identifies significant autistic masking.

Intervention includes:

• Teaching self-advocacy
• Creating safe sensory breaks
• Allowing alternative communication styles

Outcome:

• Reduced emotional shutdown at home
• Increased self-awareness

This illustrates how autistic masking can affect well-being.

Autistic Masking and Mental Health

Research consistently links sustained autistic masking with:

• Increased anxiety symptoms
• Burnout
• Emotional dysregulation

The 2022 systematic review found that chronic masking correlates with poorer mental health outcomes. Reducing social pressure may lower stress.

Autistic Masking vs Social Skill Learning

There is a difference between:

• Learning social skills
• Suppressing identity

Social skill development involves understanding social rules. Autistic masking involves hiding authentic behaviors to avoid negative reactions. Therapy goals focus on communication and independence, not forced conformity.

Supporting Individuals Who Engage in Autistic Masking

Structured support may include:

• Teaching self-advocacy
• Identifying sensory needs
• Encouraging authentic expression
• Reducing unrealistic social demands
• Providing predictable routines

ABA programs may address functional communication while respecting individual identity. Support focuses on skill-building rather than suppression.

Autistic Masking in Teens and Adults

In adolescence and adulthood, autistic masking may become more sophisticated.

Examples include:

• Rehearsing workplace conversations
• Monitoring facial expressions constantly
• Hiding special interests

Over time, sustained masking may contribute to burnout. Understanding autistic masking helps professionals tailor intervention.

Measuring Impact

Professionals assess:

• Anxiety levels
• Emotional regulation patterns
• Social fatigue
• Self-report when possible

Addressing autistic masking may involve adjusting environmental demands rather than changing core traits.

Conclusion

Autistic masking refers to hiding or camouflaging autistic traits to fit social expectations. Research shows that while masking may help in certain situations, prolonged masking can increase stress and affect mental health.

At Inclusive ABA, our clinical team focuses on building communication, independence, and coping skills while respecting each individual’s authentic identity. If your child shows signs of social exhaustion or hidden stress, schedule a consultation with Inclusive ABA today.

Structured, respectful support leads to healthier long-term outcomes.

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