Masking can operate subconsciously, meaning individuals may engage in behaviors to conform to societal norms without being fully aware they are doing so. This subconscious masking often develops as a survival mechanism over time and is influenced by external pressures, internalized beliefs, and past experiences. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Subconscious Masking as a Learned Survival Mechanism
- Early Conditioning: Many neurodivergent individuals begin masking in childhood due to societal or parental pressure to “fit in” or avoid punishment for being different. Over time, these behaviors become automatic and ingrained.
- Trauma Response: Subconscious masking can emerge as a response to trauma, such as bullying, exclusion, or discrimination. To avoid further harm, individuals unconsciously adopt behaviors they believe will make them more acceptable.
Internalized Ableism
- Belief in Being “Broken”: Neurodivergent individuals often internalize societal messages that their natural traits are undesirable or unworthy. This leads to automatic suppression of authentic behaviors, even without conscious intent.
- Projection of Acceptability: Subconscious masking involves unconsciously mirroring neurotypical behaviors or suppressing traits like stimming or sensory reactions to appear more “normal”.
Environmental Influence
- Shaped by Surroundings: Subconscious masking is often shaped by the environment. For example, in settings where neurodivergent traits are stigmatized (e.g., schools or workplaces), individuals may unconsciously adapt their behavior to avoid negative outcomes.
- “Taking the Shape of the Container”: As one study puts it, individuals unconsciously conform to the expectations of their environment, much like water taking the shape of its container.
Automatic Social Strategies
- Mimicry Without Awareness: Subconscious masking can involve unconsciously copying the facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language of those around them to blend in socially.
- Suppression of Natural Responses: For example, an autistic individual might automatically avoid stimming or force eye contact without realizing they are doing so because these behaviors have been repeatedly discouraged.
Disconnect from Authentic Self
- Loss of Self-Awareness: Prolonged subconscious masking can lead individuals to lose touch with their true identity and preferences. They may not realize which behaviors are authentic and which are adaptations until they begin unmasking.
- Emotional Isolation: Subconscious masking often creates a sense of being “alone in a room full of people,” as individuals feel disconnected from themselves and others due to the constant performance.
Indicators of Subconscious Masking
- Feeling exhausted after social interactions without knowing why.
- Difficulty identifying personal preferences or needs.
- Automatically suppressing emotions or sensory responses in public settings.
Summary
Subconscious masking operates as an automatic response to societal pressures and past experiences, often without the individual’s awareness. It is shaped by trauma, environmental expectations, and internalized ableism, leading to significant emotional and cognitive costs over time. Recognizing and addressing subconscious masking is crucial for reconnecting with one’s authentic self and improving mental well-being.
Disclaimer: I am not a psychologist, therapist, or licensed mental health professional, and I do not practice clinical psychology. The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified mental health professional or healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or psychological condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this site.
