What Is Autism Masking? The Truth About Hiding Behaviors in Children

Autism masking, also known as social camouflaging, is a coping strategy where individuals on the spectrum hide or suppress certain behaviors to appear more "neurotypical." While this can help children blend into social settings, it often comes at a cost to their emotional well-being. For families working with professionals in ABA applied behavior analysis, understanding the difference between skill-building and forced masking is critical.

Masking may involve mimicking social behaviors, hiding stims, or forcing eye contact to meet social expectations. While these behaviors might seem like progress from the outside, they can lead to increased anxiety, exhaustion, and even burnout over time. That’s why ethical ABA applied behavior analysis practices focus on helping children develop authentic communication and coping skills, rather than encouraging them to hide who they are.

The goal of ABA applied behavior analysis is to support a child’s independence, confidence, and quality of life—not to suppress their identity. This means using individualized goals, promoting self-advocacy, and teaching functional alternatives in ways that respect neurodiversity. Recognizing and respecting each child’s natural behaviors can reduce the pressure to mask and instead foster self-acceptance and emotional regulation.

Parents and caregivers concerned about the balance between therapy and authenticity can benefit from working with providers who take a compassionate, child-centered approach. Providers like Advanceable ABA prioritize positive reinforcement, collaboration, and person-first practices that honor the child’s voice throughout their therapy journey.

As awareness of autism masking grows, it’s important to choose interventions that empower rather than silence. Understanding this distinction can help families ensure their child is supported in a way that builds confidence—without compromising who they truly are.