Autism masking is when a person with autism tries to hide their symptoms to blend in with others who don’t have autism. They might do this because they don’t want to be different, but it can be tiring and make them feel like they aren’t being themselves.
What are the effects of autism masking?
Autism masking can be exhausting and tiring for those who use it, as they must constantly hide their true selves. It causes feelings of loneliness and isolation.
How can autism masking be recognized?
Autism masking can be recognized through changes in behavior, such as increased eye contact or reduced repetitive behaviors, that may indicate a person is trying to hide their autism.
How can individuals with autism be supported in stopping masking?
Individuals with autism can stop masking by creating a safe and supportive environment, increasing their understanding of their autism, and encouraging them to be themselves. Therapy or counseling can also help address the underlying reasons for masking.
Autism masking is when someone with autism tries to hide their symptoms and pretend to be like other people who don’t have autism. This can happen because they don’t want to be different or because they have learned that getting along with others is easier if they act like everyone else. When someone masks their autism, they may be good at pretending to be like others, but it can be exhausting. They may have to work really hard to keep up the act, and it can make them feel like they’re not being themselves. Masking can also make it harder for people to understand that the person has autism and give them the support they need. Overall, autism masking is when someone with autism tries to hide their symptoms, but it can be hard and tiring for them.
Autism masking can be linked with various conditions, each influencing and intensifying the behavior. Let’s explore some of these associated conditions:
In conclusion, understanding these associated conditions can help parents and caregivers provide more targeted support, fostering an environment that encourages authenticity and reduces the need for masking. Goally, our dedicated tablet, can support kids dealing with autism masking. It offers gamified learning, visual schedules, and AAC apps for skill development, alongside tools for emotional regulation and executive functioning, providing a fun and educational environment that encourages authentic self-expression.
This post was originally published on Feb. 5, 2023. It was updated on July 14, 2023.
