Definition
Masking is the practice of hiding or suppressing autistic traits to fit into neurotypical social environments. It includes forcing eye contact, copying others' body language, scripting conversations in advance, suppressing stims, and performing emotions that feel expected rather than genuine.
Why It Matters
Masking takes significant energy. A 2021 systematic review of camouflaging research found that higher self-reported camouflaging is associated with worse mental health, and autistic adults in a 2020 study of burnout named unmasking as part of recovering from autistic burnout.
Common Misconception
Masking is not the same as improving social skills. It is not a neutral coping strategy. It is effortful concealment that comes at a psychological cost.