Definition
High-masking describes autistic people who are particularly skilled at concealing autistic traits in social situations. Research on camouflaging reports differences by sex and gender, and links higher self-reported camouflaging with worse mental health.
Why It Matters
High-masking autism can be missed by tools built around more visible presentations. In a 2019 study of autistic adults, autistic women scored lower than autistic men on an observation-based assessment while reporting more autistic traits and more camouflaging. High-maskers are often told they 'don't look autistic' which reflects the diagnostic tools' limitations, not their experience.
Common Misconception
High-masking does not mean mild autism. The energy spent masking is invisible to observers but profoundly costly. 'High-functioning' language often masks (pun intended) significant support needs.