Understanding Autism Masking & Camouflaging: A Guide for Parents

Learn about autism masking, why autistic individuals camouflage their traits, the mental health impacts, and how to support your child in being their authentic self.

Conceptual illustration of autism masking, showing a person holding a mask
BZ
Buzz ABA Clinical Team
•Published: December 6, 2025

Masking is also known as camouflaging. It is hiding autistic traits to fit in. The National Autistic Society notes this is common. It is seen often in autistic women and girls.

What Is Autism Masking?

Masking involves hiding your true self to fit in. This might mean:

  • Forcing eye contact when it's uncomfortable
  • Suppressing repetitive movements (stimming)
  • Using prepared scripts for conversation
  • Copying others' behavior

Common Masking Behaviors

  • Forcing or faking eye contact during conversations
  • Suppressing natural stimming behaviors
  • Copying others' facial expressions and gestures
  • Preparing and rehearsing social scripts
  • Hiding intense interests that seem "unusual" to others
  • Enduring sensory discomfort without showing distress
  • Using learned phrases to appear more socially "normal"

Why Do Autistic People Mask?

Masking often starts due to social pressure. It is a way to cope. Negative experiences like bullying can lead to masking. Being told natural behaviors are "wrong" also causes it.

The Mental Health Impact of Masking

Masking helps in the short term. But it has a cost. Research shows it harms mental health. Long-term camouflaging is draining.

Consequences of Chronic Masking

  • Autistic burnout from exhaustion of constant performance
  • Identity confusion and loss of authentic self
  • Increased anxiety and depression symptoms
  • Delayed autism diagnosis due to hidden traits
  • Difficulty accessing appropriate support services

Recognizing Masking in Your Child

Signs Your Child May Be Masking

  • Significantly different behavior at home vs. school
  • Exhaustion or meltdowns after social situations
  • Copying behaviors from TV shows, movies, or peers
  • Appearing "fine" in public but struggling privately
  • High anxiety about social situations despite appearing capable

Supporting Authentic Self-Expression

Ways to Support Your Child

  • Create safe spaces where stimming and special interests are welcomed
  • Validate their autistic experiences and identity
  • Teach self-advocacy skills to communicate their needs
  • Help them identify when masking feels necessary vs. optional
  • Connect them with autistic mentors and community

Expert Insight from Jennifer Harbour, M.S., BCBA

"At Buzz ABA, we affirm neurodiversity. We never ask children to hide who they are. My goal is to help them build skills that help them. We celebrate their true selves. Stimming is regulation. Intense interests show passion."

Start Your Child's Journey Today

Buzz ABA provides comprehensive, evidence-based ABA therapy in Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and surrounding NH communities. Our neurodiversity-affirming approach helps children thrive.

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Related Resources

Autism in Girls

Understanding how autism presents differently in girls.

Late Autism Diagnosis

Support for those diagnosed later in life.

Autism and Anxiety

Managing anxiety and stress.

Autism Meltdowns Guide

Understanding meltdowns vs tantrums.

About Buzz ABA Therapy in New Hampshire

Buzz ABA is a leading provider of evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy services throughout New Hampshire. Founded by parents who understand the journey of raising a child with autism, our mission is to provide compassionate, family-centered care that empowers children to reach their full potential.

Our team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) specializes in early intervention, social skills development, and managing challenging behaviors. We believe in a neurodiversity-affirming approach that respects each child's unique personality while teaching functional skills that improve quality of life and independence.

Serving Families Across the Granite State

We bring expert ABA therapy directly to your community. Our in-home and community-based programs are available in major compassionate hubs including:

Concord, NHManchester, NHNashua, NHDerry, NHDover, NHRochester, NHSalem, NHLondonderry, NH

Why We Prioritize Evidence-Based Treatment

At Buzz ABA, we strictly adhere to updated scientific research. Whether it's Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI), Natural Environment Teaching (NET), or Pivotal Response Training (PRT), our methodologies are rooted in decades of clinical proof. We focus on "generalization"—ensuring the skills your child learns in therapy transfer seamlessly to school, home, and social settings. This commitment to data-driven progress is why families trust us for their autism support journey.

Next Steps for Your Family

If you have questions about your child's development or want to learn more about our intake process, our clinical team is ready to help.

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