A Conceptual Analysis of Autistic Masking: Understanding the Narrative of Stigma and the Illusion of Choice
Pearson and Rose (2021)
The body of research on Autistic masking is growing and suggests that masking may be linked to negative outcomes for Autistic people. This work is a conceptual analysis of Autistic masking. The authors suggest that masking in a response to the deficit narrative surround Autism and the stigma within wider society. Through outlining classical social theory (social identity theory) the authors discuss how the theory can help understanding on how and why people mask. This is done through placing masking in the social context in which it develops. The authors explore the literature on stigma and marginalisation to explore the intersectional nature of masking – such as gender. They argue that whilst masking might contribute to differences in diagnosis, gender norms and stereotypes should not be imposed by associating masking with a female Autism phenotype. The article concludes with recommendations for further research – stressing the need for increased understanding of intersectionality and the ways in which Autism may present in different people. The authors recommend that masking is examined through a sociodevelopmental lens.
