What is Autistic masking ?
What is Autistic masking ? 7 everyday examples in adults
7 everyday examples in adults
Autistic masking means hiding or changing aspects of your autistic presentation to fit expectations, avoid negative reactions or get through social situations. It can involve deliberate strategies or habits that feel automatic; recognising yourself in an example does not establish an autism diagnosis.
Autistic Masking Guide Key takeaways:
Masking can be deliberate or automatic, and it may vary between people and settings.
Appearing socially comfortable does not tell someone how much effort an interaction takes.
Examples such as rehearsing conversations are not specific enough to diagnose autism.
Assessment should consider your developmental history and wider experiences, including masking where relevant.
Support should respect your preferences and circumstances, without pressure to unmask everywhere.
7 examples of autistic masking in adults:
Do I rehearse ordinary conversations?
Am I consciously managing eye contact?
Do I copy other people's expressions or speaking style?
Do I hide movements that help me feel comfortable?
Do I conceal sensory discomfort?
Do I hide interests or preferences to avoid judgement?
Do I present as comfortable while working hard to keep up?
Does recognising masking mean I am autistic?
No. Recognising these experiences, or scoring highly on an online questionnaire, does not establish an autism diagnosis. At Redefini, autism assessment brings together developmental history, interviews, observations and appropriate measures. Masking is considered alongside the wider information; no single measure determines the outcome.
Should I try to stop masking?
You do not have to make unmasking an immediate goal. Our recommendation is to start with one useful adjustment rather than a blanket instruction to "just be yourself." Redefini's psychological therapy and counselling can support individual goals around wellbeing, communication and self-advocacy. Our neuroaffirming approach does not aim to suppress harmless autistic traits or make someone appear less autistic.
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Reaching out does not commit you to anything. It's an opportunity to ask questions and find out whether Redefini Therapies is a good fit. Helpful to bring: your referral question, any existing reports, and questions about fees & availability.
What to Bring?
To help your testing session run smoothly, please bring the following items with you: Water and Snacks, Aids and Supports, Reports and Documents, and Comfortable Clothing.
Want the full picture?
This is just a glimpse. The complete guide also answers frequently asked questions, including: "Can I fail the assessment?", "Will I definitely receive a diagnosis?", and "Can my report be used for NDIS?"
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Redefini Therapies provides psychological assessment and therapy for children, adolescents and adults. Areas of clinical focus include autism, ADHD, intellectual functioning, learning, executive functioning, emotional wellbeing and the practical effects of disability and neurodivergence.
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