Neurodivergent masking is a phenomenon in which individuals hide or suppress certain traits that are associated with their neurodivergence, such as autism or ADHD, in order to fit into societal expectations. This act of masking is often driven by the desire to avoid discrimination, stigma, and the challenges that can arise from being different.
Definition of Masking
Neurodivergent masking involves concealing or suppressing aspects of one’s neurodivergent traits or conditions to conform to workplace or societal norms. For example, individuals with autism may hide behaviors like avoiding eye contact, struggling with social interactions, or having difficulty with multitasking.
This masking can be a conscious or subconscious effort to blend in and appear more neurotypical.
That said, there are several reasons why neurodivergent individuals engage in masking. Here are some of them:
- Social Expectations and Conformity: Society often has rigid expectations of how individuals should behave, communicate, and interact. Neurodivergent individuals may feel pressured to mask their differences to avoid judgment or rejection.
- Fear of Stigma and Discrimination: Many neurodivergent individuals have experienced stigma and discrimination in various aspects of their lives. Masking can be a protective mechanism to navigate these challenges and reduce the risk of negative consequences.
- Camouflaging for Social Acceptance: Some individuals engage in masking to be more socially accepted and fit in with their peers. This can involve imitating social behaviors, mimicking facial expressions, or suppressing stimming behaviors.
- Coping with Sensory Overload: Neurodivergent individuals often have heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli. Masking can help reduce sensory overload by avoiding certain sensory triggers or regulating their responses in public settings.
- Desire for Personal Success and Achievement: Masking can be driven by the desire for personal success and achievement. Some individuals may feel that masking their neurodivergent traits will lead to better opportunities, career advancement, or acceptance in society.
It’s important to note that while masking can provide temporary relief or benefits, it often comes at a cost. Masking can lead to increased stress, exhaustion, anxiety, and difficulties with self-acceptance and identity.
It can also create barriers to receiving appropriate support and accommodations that could improve mental well-being and overall quality of life.
Impact of Neurodivergent Masking
Masking can have significant consequences and effects on mental health. Understanding these impacts is crucial in promoting a more inclusive and supportive environment for neurodivergent individuals.
It can have profound consequences for neurodivergent individuals, which makes it even more challenging for them to choose to be their authentic selves. In some cases, the consequences of unmasking can be severe, leading to denial of permanent residency in countries perceived as progressive or inhumane treatment.
Neurodivergents of color are disproportionately affected, with recent incidents highlighting the disproportionately deadly consequences of unmasking for Black autistic people.
Masking can also have detrimental effects on the mental health and well-being of neurodivergent individuals, particularly in professional settings. Constantly suppressing natural tendencies and adapting to neurotypical norms can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
Neurodivergent professionals may experience increased emotional distress, difficulty seeking help, social isolation, impaired self-awareness, and hindered personal growth as a result of masking.
In the context of autism, masking refers to the conscious or subconscious effort of autistic individuals to camouflage or hide their autistic traits in order to fit in with neurotypical individuals.
This can lead to heightened stress and exhaustion, increased anxiety and social difficulties, and masking as a barrier to receiving a proper diagnosis and accessing support. Struggles with identity and self-acceptance can also arise from the constant pressure to mask.
While masking may provide temporary relief or protection in the short term, it can have long-term negative effects on mental health. It can contribute to emotional distress, difficulty seeking help, social isolation, impaired self-awareness, burnout, worsening of existing mental health conditions, lack of authentic self-expression, and hindered personal growth.
Neurodivergent Masking in the Workplace
The phenomenon of neurodivergent masking is particularly prevalent in the workplace, where individuals with neurodivergent conditions may feel the need to conceal or suppress their natural tendencies and behaviors in order to fit in with neurotypical norms.
To deal with this, neurodivergent professionals often develop coping strategies to navigate the demands of the workplace while masking their neurodivergent traits. These strategies can vary depending on the individual and their specific neurodivergent condition.
Some common coping strategies include:
How to Address Masking
In order to address neurodivergent masking, parents, and caregivers should prioritize the well-being and authenticity of their neurodivergent children. There are two key strategies that can help in this process which are as follows:
Seeking Support
One of the most valuable strategies for addressing neurodivergent masking is seeking support. This can involve reaching out to professionals, such as therapists or counselors, who specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals.
These professionals can provide a safe and understanding environment where individuals can openly discuss their experiences and challenges.
Support groups or peer networks can also be beneficial. Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide a sense of validation and belonging. These groups can offer a space for sharing stories, exchanging coping strategies, and learning from one another’s journeys.
In addition to professional and peer support, it’s important to have open and honest conversations with friends, family members, and colleagues. Educating them about neurodivergent masking and explaining their own experiences can foster understanding and empathy.
Cultivating Authenticity
Another important strategy is cultivating authenticity. This involves embracing and expressing your true self, rather than conforming to societal expectations or masking your neurodivergent traits. It’s crucial to remember that being neurodivergent is not a flaw or something that needs to be hidden.
Cultivating authenticity begins with self-acceptance and self-compassion. Recognize and celebrate your unique strengths and abilities. Embrace your neurodivergent traits as an integral part of your identity.
It can also be helpful to explore your passions and interests. Engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment can provide a sense of purpose and authenticity. Be it finding a new hobby, engaging in various creative outlets, or advocating for neurodiversity, finding activities that align with your values and interests can help you feel more connected to your authentic self.
Remember, addressing neurodivergent masking is an ongoing journey. It takes time and patience to develop self-awareness, seek support, and cultivate authenticity.
By prioritizing your well-being and embracing your true self, you can navigate the challenges of masking and find empowerment in embracing your neurodivergent identity. For support with ABA therapy in Michigan, consider reaching out to Entiva Behavioral Health. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you on your journey.
