Understanding Autism Masking and Its Impact

Key Points:

• Autism masking, or camouflaging, is when an individual with ASD suppresses their natural behaviors to blend into neurotypical settings.
• While it may appear helpful, long-term masking can lead to burnout, anxiety, and identity confusion.
• Parents, caregivers, and educators can learn to recognize masking behaviors and offer healthier support systems for self-expression.

Have you ever looked at your child and wondered why they act so differently at home compared to school? That contrast might be masking. Many kids with autism hide their true behaviors in public to fit in—and while it may seem like progress, it can be deeply exhausting and harmful.

What Is Masking in ASD?

Masking in ASD—often referred to as autism masking or camouflaging—is when individuals consciously or unconsciously hide autistic traits to appear more neurotypical. This behavior often develops as a coping mechanism in social situations.

Masking ASD traits might involve mimicking others’ body language, forcing eye contact, suppressing stimming, or rehearsing social responses. While it may help someone fit in temporarily, it often comes at the cost of mental and emotional well-being.

Why Do People with Autism Mask?

Masking doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it’s often the result of years of social conditioning, bullying, or subtle pressure to “act normal.” Many children and adults with autism learn early on that their natural behaviors aren’t always accepted in school, at work, or in social groups.

To avoid criticism, they begin to hide or edit parts of themselves: suppressing repetitive movements, forcing small talk, or pretending to be okay in overwhelming environments. Over time, this constant self-monitoring becomes exhausting and disconnects them from their true selves.

What Are the Signs of Masking in Children and Teens?

Autism masking in children and teens isn’t always obvious. In fact, it’s often mistaken for “improvement” or “growing out of it.” But masking doesn’t mean the underlying struggles are gone—it just means they’re being hidden better.

It's not always easy to spot when a child is masking, but certain behaviors often give it away. Here are a few key signs that indicate your child might be hiding their true self

• Exhaustion After Social Interaction: Meltdowns or shutdowns at home after holding it together all day.
• Overly Scripted Social Interactions: Rehearsing conversations or mimicking others’ tone and body language.
• Suppressing Stimming: Hiding hand flapping, rocking, or other self-regulatory behaviors.
• High Anxiety Levels: Constant stress around being liked, accepted, or “doing it right.”

Parents might notice that their child behaves differently at school versus at home. At school, they may seem quiet, polite, and compliant. At home, they may become overwhelmed, defiant, or emotionally dysregulated once the pressure lifts.

How Does Masking Affect Mental Health?

Masking ASD traits over time can lead to serious emotional and psychological consequences. When a child feels that their authentic behavior is unacceptable, they internalize the message that they must change or hide to be loved or safe.

Over time, this can erode self-esteem and create a deep sense of identity confusion. Many people report feeling like they don't know who they are when they aren't masking.

Let’s explore the emotional impact of chronic masking:

• Autistic Burnout: A state of mental and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged masking and sensory overload.
• Anxiety and Depression: Persistent self-monitoring and social stress increase the risk of mood disorders.
• Delayed Diagnosis: Especially in girls, masking can delay identification and intervention, making support harder to access.
• Low Self-Worth: When constantly performing for others, children may feel they’re never “enough” just as they are.

Many adults who were diagnosed later in life describe a painful process of “unmasking”—learning how to reconnect with their true selves after years of hiding.

What’s the Difference Between Coping and Masking?

At first, it might be hard to distinguish between coping and masking, but they are very different in practice. Coping is about using strategies to manage stress while staying true to who you are, such as taking a break when things get overwhelming or using a fidget toy for comfort. It’s about finding ways to handle challenges without losing your sense of self.

On the other hand, masking is when someone hides their true self to avoid judgment or fit in. This could mean pretending to understand directions, suppressing feelings of distress, or mimicking others without fully understanding why. Unlike coping, masking doesn't allow for genuine expression or growth.

By understanding the difference between these two, parents and educators can better support children in developing healthy coping skills rather than relying on masking, which often leads to increased stress and emotional strain over time. Coping helps children build resilience, while masking can create long-term emotional pressure.

Can Masking Be Unlearned?

Yes, it is possible to unlearn masking, but it requires time, consistent support, and a foundation of trust. The process involves helping children understand that they are safe to be themselves, even if their behaviors differ from others.

Unlearning masking often requires both personal and environmental changes. It’s not only about helping the child develop healthier coping strategies but also transforming the spaces they interact with, such as their home, school, and social settings.

To help kids unmask in a safe and supportive way, creating environments where they can truly relax is key. This might include safe spaces at home, in therapy sessions, or with trusted individuals, where children can let their guard down without fear of judgment.

It’s also beneficial to work with professionals who are experienced in masking. These specialists can guide children toward greater self-acceptance and self-confidence, helping them express themselves more authentically.

Instead of forcing children to suppress natural behaviors like stimming or repetitive movements, it’s important to celebrate them. These traits can serve valuable functions, such as providing comfort or regulating emotions, and they should be acknowledged as part of the child’s identity.

By building safe, accepting environments, adults can help reduce the need for masking and support genuine connection and growth.

How Does ABA Therapy Help With Masking in ASD?

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy, when practiced ethically and compassionately, can help children with autism learn to manage their environments in ways that reduce the need for masking—not increase it. At its best, ABA therapy is not about making autistic kids appear neurotypical. It’s about teaching useful skills in a way that respects the child’s identity and needs.

Empower Your Child With ABA Therapy in Colorado and Missouri

At New Dawn ABA, we believe that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported exactly as they are. If your child is navigating the challenges of masking ASD traits, we’re here to help.

Through ethical, individualized ABA therapy, we support children in building communication, confidence, and real-world coping skills—without pressuring them to mask or hide who they are.

We proudly offer ABA therapy in Colorado and Missouri, where our team is committed to empowering neurodivergent kids to live authentically and thrive. If you’re ready to move beyond masking and embrace meaningful growth, reach out to us today!