UPDATE: New insights on the coping strategy known as “masking” have emerged, raising urgent concerns about its impact on mental health. Experts warn that while masking can help individuals navigate social situations, it can lead to severe psychological consequences.
Amara Brook, a clinical psychologist in training, recently shared her experience with masking during a critical meeting. Brook, who has attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism, described how she resorted to clenching a Jolly Rancher to suppress her urge to speak. “Without it, I would have definitely ruffled feathers,” she explained, illustrating the lengths individuals go to conform to societal expectations.
Masking, a strategy that involves concealing one’s true self to fit in, can be particularly taxing. Brook noted, “Putting on a show all the time is exhausting.” This sentiment resonates with many, as the pressure to conform can exacerbate mental health issues, leading to anxiety, depression, and burnout.
The phenomenon of masking has been studied since the 1960s, gaining traction in psychology. It was notably highlighted by social psychologist Erving Goffman, who discussed how stigma forces individuals to hide parts of their identities. However, the term “masking” became widely recognized in the 1970s, with psychologists like Paul Ekman using it to describe the act of concealing emotions.
In recent years, the term “autistic masking” has emerged, particularly within the autistic community. It refers to the practice of hiding behaviors like hand-flapping or imitating social norms. Research has revealed that masking is not only prevalent but can become a lifelong survival strategy for many individuals, leading to serious mental health challenges.
Experts emphasize that while everyone occasionally masks their true selves to fit in, it should not become a constant burden. Mark Leary, a professor emeritus at Duke University, states that belonging is key to well-being. However, when the effort to mask leads to negative self-perception, it can be harmful.
Clinical psychologist Sara Woods warns that excessive masking suggests inherent flaws in one’s identity. “There’s a lot of effort that goes into that on a daily basis,” she says, highlighting the psychological toll it can take.
If you suspect you’re masking too much, Iris Mauss from the University of California, Berkeley, suggests evaluating its impact on your relationships and well-being. “Does masking help me in general? If the cons outweigh the pros, consider masking less,” she advises.
Social psychologist Devon Price encourages individuals to find “pockets of safety” where they can be authentic, starting with trusted friends or family. “Testing the waters with a mental health provider can also be beneficial,” Price recommends.
Experts stress the importance of community. Finding groups that embrace one’s identity, like self-advocacy organizations for autistic individuals, can foster self-acceptance. “When you look around and see others like you, it can be a powerful realization,” Price adds.
As research on masking continues to evolve, it is imperative for individuals and communities to understand its complexities. Experts warn that supporting one another in authenticity is key to fostering mental health and resilience.
The conversation around masking is ongoing, and experts encourage an open dialogue to promote understanding and acceptance. As society becomes more aware of these issues, there is hope that acceptance will grow, leading to better mental health outcomes for all.
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue as further research develops.
