Autism masking, or camouflaging autistic traits to fit in socially, can begin at different ages for different people, and research suggests it often emerges during childhood when social expectations become more complex. Some studies and personal accounts describe early signs in preschool or early elementary years, such as learning to suppress stimming after being told not to do it, copying peers' play, or rehearsing phrases. Masking often becomes more noticeable in later childhood and early adolescence, around ages 8 to 14, when peer relationships, social rules, and awareness of being different increase, and many autistic young people report working hard to hide differences to avoid bullying or rejection. For some, significant masking may not be recognized until adolescence or adulthood, especially for those who were not identified as autistic early. The timing is influenced by environment, temperament, gendered social expectations, and support. Because masking can be exhausting and associated with anxiety and burnout, early supportive environments that accept neurodivergent ways of communicating can reduce pressure to mask. If masking is a concern, a psychologist or clinician experienced with autism can help explore coping strategies and supportive accommodations.
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