Autistic Masking: Understanding Identity Management and the Role of Stigma

by Amy Pearson, Kieran Rose

Masking is a form of identity management involving consciously or unconsciously suppressing aspects of identity and action. Often seen in socially marginalised groups, it is found to contribute towards poorer outcomes for autistic people and is related to higher prevalence of suicidality, exhaustion, burnout, and mental health difficulties. Though masking has been predominantly framed as a social strategy to ‘blend in’ with neurotypical (non-autistic) people, emerging research suggests that masking can also form as a response to stigma and from traumatic experiences. Taking an intersectional lens to consider how autistic identity may interact with other aspects of selfhood, the authors will provide a holistic understanding of the most up-to-date evidence with the aim to develop solid knowledge and practice in health and education.

Genres: Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Nonfiction, Disability, Psychology, Self Help

304 pages, Paperback

Published September 30, 2023

Reviews

[AD · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many people who grow up without a diagnosis are labelled as “picky”, “blunt” or “resistant to change” long before they are identified as autistic.

Amy Pearson and Kieran Rose - Autistic Masking 2023

The second chapter covers the history and social concept of Autism. Which in itself is well worth reading.

I struggled to read the book at first as its aim is to be an academic touchstone on Autistic Masking. I’ve never been one for Academia which is probably why I struggled. But it’s also written in way that it is open to a broader audience than just that for which I am very grateful.

So after stop starting a few times I picked it back up. I think the timing was right as I am just beginning to find and understand my Neurodivergent Self and Personal & Social Identity in Adulthood. (43 years old

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beginning is quite slow but it has some very interesting things to explore

[~Annaki~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!