Science and Medicine

Autistic masking

Autistic masking, also referred to as camouflaging, is the conscious or subconscious suppression of autistic behaviors with the goal of being perceived as neurotypical. Masking behavior is a learned coping strategy in response to minority stress that may prevent someone being stigmatized, but can also negatively impact their mental health. Autistic people have cited social acceptance, the need to have a job, and the avoidance of ostracism or verbal or physical abuse as reasons for masking. However, research also shows autistic masking is frequently reported as physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausting for the individual, and the behavior is linked to long-term negative impacts on well-being.

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• ▸Landscape painting
• ▸Bernardino Larghi

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