Masking by autistic children: In their own words and pictures
Masking (or camouflaging) of autism involves hiding aspects of autism in social situations. Most research into masking has focused on the experiences of autistic adults, and we still don’t know much about whether or how autistic children mask, or the impact it might have. This study used a photo-elicitation approach where autistic children were able to express their experiences of masking by taking photos and talking to interviewers about the photos. The children described a range of experiences of masking, including feeling different to other children, and as if there were multiple ‘versions’ of themselves.
The research team included Laura Hull (Bristol Medical School) and Felicity Sedgewick (School of Education).