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What is an example of masking in autism?
Social interaction can be challenging for individuals on the autism spectrum. While some differences are visible, others remain hidden beneath the surface. Autism masking, also known as masking in autism or autism social camouflaging, is when an autistic person consciously or unconsciously suppresses their natural behaviors to fit into a neurotypical world.
From the outside, masking may seem like a sign of adaptability or resilience. However, for many individuals, especially children and teens, masking comes at a significant emotional and physical cost. It’s a survival strategy shaped by social pressures, fear of rejection, and a deep desire to belong. Over time, this constant effort can lead to exhaustion, burnout, and even severe mental health challenges, according to Autism Speaks.
For parents, caregivers, and educators, understanding autism masking is crucial. Recognizing the signs allows families to provide better support and create environments where children can express themselves freely, without feeling the need to hide who they are, so keep reading this blog by ABA Centers of New Jersey and gain valuable insights.
What Is Autism Masking?
Autism masking involves imitating or suppressing behaviors to appear “neurotypical” in social settings. Autism masking can include:
- Forcing or maintaining eye contact despite discomfort
- Rehearsing conversational scripts before social interactions
- Mimicking peers’ body language or speech patterns
- Hiding repetitive behaviors (stimming) like hand-flapping or rocking
- Forcing smiles or laughter to match expected emotional responses
- Remaining silent to avoid saying something perceived as “wrong”
Research by Autism in Adulthood highlights that masking is not just a learned behavior but often a response to repeated social rejection. When children receive negative feedback for their natural expressions, they begin to camouflage their authentic selves to avoid bullying, judgment, or exclusion.
Why Does Masking in Autism Happen?
Many children and teens with autism learn early that their behaviors are misunderstood or stigmatized. For example, a child who flaps their hands when excited may be told to “stop being weird.” Over time, they suppress these natural responses to gain acceptance.
Some key reasons for masking in autism include:
- Social Pressure: Neurotypical peers often expect specific social behaviors. Children with autism may mask to avoid being teased or isolated.
- Fear of Rejection: The desire to belong can drive individuals to hide their differences, even at the cost of their mental well-being.
- Misunderstood Support Systems: Well-meaning adults may encourage children to “act normal,” unintentionally reinforcing the idea that their authentic behaviors are wrong.
- Safety Concerns: For some, masking is a protective strategy to navigate potentially hostile or unsafe environments.
A study published in Autism Research Institute revealed that individuals on the spectrum often mask most intensely in structured settings like schools or workplaces, where social norms are rigid and nonconformity may result in negative consequences.
Signs of Autism Masking
Recognizing when someone is masking can be challenging, as the entire purpose of masking is to hide autistic traits. However, there are common indicators:
- Exhaustion after social situations: Children may seem fine in public but completely shut down at home.
- Scripted or overly rehearsed speech: Conversations sound robotic or memorized rather than spontaneous.
- Delayed meltdowns: Emotional outbursts occur later, once the individual feels safe to release pent-up stress.
- Inconsistent behaviors: A child behaves very differently at school compared to at home.
- Physical stress symptoms: Headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue after prolonged social interactions.
- Avoidance of social events: Fear of environments where they feel pressured to mask.
Parents often notice a stark contrast between their child’s behavior in public and private settings, which can be a strong clue that masking is occurring.
The Hidden Consequences of Masking
While masking can help individuals navigate social settings temporarily, it comes with long-term consequences. A study titled “Masking Is Life” revealed that autistic adults who masked extensively reported higher rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout. Some even experienced identity confusion, feeling unsure of who they truly were without the mask. Additional consequences of masking in autism include:
Emotional Impact
Masking requires constant self-monitoring and suppression of instincts, which can lead to autistic burnout, a state of extreme mental and physical exhaustion. Children may feel shame about their true selves, damaging their self-esteem and sense of identity.
Physical Health Effects
The stress of masking has physical consequences, such as sleep disturbances, weakened immune systems, and chronic fatigue. Over time, these effects can impact overall well-being.
Barriers to Diagnosis
Girls with autism often mask more than boys, which can delay diagnosis and access to essential services, contributing to the underrepresentation of girls in autism statistics, leaving them underserved.
How ABA Therapy Helps Without Forcing Masking
At ABA Centers of New Jersey, our goal is not to teach children to hide their autism but to empower them to express themselves confidently. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy provides evidence-based strategies to improve communication, independence, and coping mechanisms.
Key ABA approaches include:
- Personalized Goal Setting: Therapists tailor therapy plans to each child’s strengths and comfort level.
- Building Coping Skills: Instead of suppressing stimming, therapists teach children positive coping mechanisms.
- Supporting Authentic Communication: Therapists focus on giving children the tools to express themselves rather than forcing eye contact or scripted behaviors.
- Family Involvement: Parent training ensures caregivers understand their child’s unique needs and avoid reinforcing harmful masking behaviors.
ABA also supports autism social camouflaging awareness, helping children and families recognize when masking is occurring and addressing it compassionately.
Creating Safe Spaces to Reduce Masking
Reducing the need for masking starts with creating inclusive, understanding environments. Families, educators, and communities can help by:
- Letting children know it’s okay to express themselves authentically
- Celebrating neurodiversity and challenging stereotypes about autism
- Reducing overwhelming stimuli in schools, homes, and public areas
- Teaching classmates about autism to foster empathy and inclusion
Supporting Neurodiverse Families in New Jersey
Autism masking is a complex and deeply personal experience. While it may help individuals navigate specific situations, the emotional toll is significant. Understanding why masking happens and how to support children in expressing their authentic selves is crucial for long-term well-being.
Through personalized ABA therapy and inclusive community events, ABA Centers of New Jersey is committed to empowering children and teens on the autism spectrum in Edison, Hackensack, Woodstown, Trenton, and other areas of New Jersey.
By focusing on acceptance, communication, and individualized goals, we help families create environments where children can thrive without the burden of masking.
If you’re ready to learn more about our services, contact us today at (855) 640-7888 or schedule a consultation and take the first step toward compassionate, supportive care.
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