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AUTISM GLOSSARY
Masking
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 and is strongly linked to autistic burnout, anxiety, depression, and delayed diagnosis — especially in women and gender-diverse people.
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.