What Is Masking in Neurodivergent Individuals? Understanding the Concept and Its Impact
- H. Oliver
- Feb 21
- 3 min read
In a world that often prioritizes social norms and conformity, many neurodivergent individuals engage in a survival strategy known as masking. Masking in neurodivergent individuals, also called camouflaging, is the process of consciously or unconsciously suppressing natural behaviors, traits, or coping mechanisms to blend in with neurotypical expectations. While this adaptation may help individuals navigate social situations more easily, it often comes at a steep cost to mental and emotional well-being.
What Is Masking in Neurodivergent Individuals?
Masking in neurodivergent individuals involves mimicking or suppressing behaviors to appear more socially acceptable or to avoid negative reactions. This can include:
Forcing or imitating eye contact
Copying speech patterns or body language
Suppressing stimming (self-soothing repetitive movements like rocking, tapping, or hand-flapping)
Memorizing scripted responses for conversations
Hiding special interests or passions
Ignoring sensory discomfort to avoid appearing "too sensitive"
Masking is especially common among autistic individuals, those with ADHD, and other neurodivergent groups. Many begin masking in childhood after receiving subtle or direct feedback that their natural behaviors are "inappropriate" or "weird." Over time, it becomes an ingrained habit, often happening automatically without conscious thought.
Why Do Neurodivergent Individuals Mask?
Neurodivergent individuals mask for several reasons, most of which stem from a desire for acceptance or fear of rejection:
Avoiding Bullying or Discrimination: Many mask to prevent being ridiculed, excluded, or mistreated.
Fitting Into Social Norms: Society often pressures individuals to act a certain way, making masking a necessity to maintain friendships, employment, or social standing.
Survival in the Workplace: Many neurodivergent adults feel they must suppress their traits to be taken seriously or avoid workplace bias.
Avoiding Misunderstanding or Conflict: Masking can help prevent uncomfortable situations where natural behaviors are misinterpreted as rude, unprofessional, or disinterested.
While masking can serve as a temporary coping mechanism, it often leads to long-term emotional and psychological strain.
The Toll of Masking in Neurodivergent Individuals
While masking may help individuals navigate social situations, it can be exhausting and harmful over time. Some of the most significant effects include:
Burnout: Constantly monitoring and adjusting behavior is mentally draining and can lead to neurodivergent burnout—a state of extreme exhaustion, anxiety, and reduced functioning.
Identity Confusion: Long-term masking can cause individuals to lose sight of their true selves, making it difficult to know who they are beyond their mask.
Increased Anxiety and Depression: The fear of being “found out” or rejected can contribute to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.
Delayed Diagnosis: Many individuals, especially women and AFAB (assigned female at birth) people, go undiagnosed for years because their masking makes them appear neurotypical.
Difficulty in Relationships: Masking can make it hard to form genuine connections, as relationships may be based on a "performed" version of oneself rather than one's authentic identity.
Unmasking: The Journey to Self-Acceptance
Recognizing and reducing masking in neurodivergent individuals can be a crucial step toward self-acceptance and improved well-being. While completely unmasking may not be feasible in all situations, small steps can help ease the burden:
Self-Awareness: Identifying when and why you mask can help you regain a sense of control.
Safe Spaces: Finding friends, online communities, or support groups where you can be your authentic self can be incredibly healing.
Therapy and Support: Working with a therapist who understands neurodivergence can provide guidance on managing social expectations while prioritizing mental health.
Self-Compassion: Unmasking takes time, and it's okay to set boundaries and prioritize your needs at your own pace.
Final Thoughts
Masking in neurodivergent individuals is a complex and deeply ingrained survival strategy, but it comes at a cost. Understanding its impact and working toward self-acceptance—while advocating for a more inclusive world—can help reduce the pressure to conform. Everyone deserves to exist as their true selves without fear of rejection.
If you relate to masking, know that you are not alone, and your authentic self is valuable just as it is.
