Toward Sensory Accounts of Autistic Masking: A Perspective

Autistic masking has typically been understood as the suppression of natural Autistic traits within neuronormative social contexts. However, social interactions are inherently embedded within broader sensory environments, highlighting the need to consider how sensory experiences shape masking processes. Although sensory experiences have been recognized within existing masking research, the sensory dimensions of masking remain comparatively underexplored. In this perspective, we examine sensory masking as an interrelated dimension of broader Autistic masking processes, defined as the conscious or subconscious suppression, inhibition, or override of sensory responses to meet environmental or social expectations. Drawing on recent research and our own lived experience, we describe how these sensory dimensions may emerge developmentally, often as a learned adaptation to unsafe or invalidating experiences. We then consider the cumulative effects of sustained sensory masking. While sensory masking may serve a functional purpose, its chronic and persistent engagement may contribute to burnout and negatively impact well-being and mental health, particularly in the context of prolonged exposure to sensory aversive environments. We also distinguish these sensory dimensions from related processes of sensory self-regulation and sensory unmasking, which involve supporting regulation and reclaiming autonomy through safe sensory self-expression. We conclude by outlining constructive approaches that support sensory safety, self-regulation, and well-being, and propose future research directions to explore the mechanisms, impacts, and potential supports associated with the sensory dimensions of masking. Community Brief Why is this topic important? Autistic people often suppress their natural responses in order to “fit in.” This has typically been explored in social contexts, but these pressures extend to how we experience and respond to the sensory world including sound, texture, light, and movement. Sensory environments can feel overwhelming or unsafe, and navigating them may involve suppressing natural sensory responses. What is the purpose of this article? This perspective discusses the idea of the sensory dimensions of masking—highlighting how sensory experiences are embedded within broader masking processes. We describe how Autistic people may suppress sensory responses to feel safe or avoid judgment, and we also discuss related processes such as sensory self-regulation (using sensory tools or strategies to reduce overwhelm) and sensory unmasking (expressing sensory needs when it feels safe). Together, these concepts provide a more holistic understanding of how Autistic people navigate sensory environments. What personal or professional perspectives do the authors bring to this topic? The authors have lived experience with sensory masking. We are a neurodivergent team; the lead author is an Autistic sensory researcher; and all coauthors bring diverse lived experience and professional expertise in autism, education, and advocacy. Our authorship also includes those with high support needs. This perspective piece draws directly from Autistic knowledge and centers our voices and insights. What is already known about this topic? Autistic masking in social contexts is well researched and has been linked to exhaustion, burnout, and harm. Autistic people have long described how sensory overwhelm can be an everyday occurrence, but masking research has mainly focused on the social aspect of experience. While sensory differences are widely recognized in autism, less attention has been given to how sensory experiences shape masking. This article builds on existing research by highlighting the role of sensory environments within masking processes. What do the authors recommend? We invite researchers, clinicians, educators, and communities to broaden their understanding of masking to include sensory experiences beyond social context. We also call for thoughtfulness around environments that are sensory-safe and affirming—where stimming is welcomed, sensory needs are met without shame, and masking is not assumed to be the goal. Masking may still serve a useful purpose at times, but it should be a choice rather than a constant necessity. How will these recommendations help Autistic adults now or in the future? By identifying sensory masking, unmasking, and sensory self-regulation strategies, we can deepen our understanding of Autistic sensory experience beyond the simple descriptor of hypersensitivity—a term that offers limited insight into Autistic sensory experience. By recognizing the sensory dimensions of masking, we can move beyond this description and better understand Autistic sensory experiences. This perspective brings attention to sensory dimensions of masking that remain underexplored in the literature and is a launching point for future research in sensory masking of Autistic people.