Join Dr. Devon Price, a social psychologist and author specializing in neurodiversity, as he shares personal insights on the challenges of masking in neurodivergent individuals. He discusses the survival strategies behind these behaviors and the emotional toll of social inhibition in high-pressure situations. Price also emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity, urging listeners to embrace their true identities while navigating societal expectations. Prepare for an eye-opening conversation on redefining productivity and the journey to unmasking.
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insights INSIGHT
Masking Strategies
Masking involves camouflage and compensation to avoid negative social consequences.
Camouflage changes appearances, while compensation addresses unmet needs due to lack of accommodation.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Strategic Masking
View masking as a tool for achieving personal needs and values, not just conformity.
Use masking strategically to navigate social situations and mitigate potential risks.
question_answer ANECDOTE
FDR's Masking
President Roosevelt masked his wheelchair use to maintain a powerful image.
He curated his image by strategically entering rooms first, controlling his perceived weakness.
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In 'Unmasking Autism', Dr. Devon Price explores the lives of Autistic individuals who have spent their lives masking their true selves to fit societal norms. The book delves into the reasons behind this masking, its impact on mental health, and the journey towards embracing one’s authentic identity. Drawing from personal experience, history, social science research, and personal profiles, Price offers a compassionate guide for Autistic people seeking to unmask and for allies looking to support them. The book includes practical exercises such as celebrating special interests, cultivating Autistic relationships, reframing Autistic stereotypes, and rediscovering one’s values. It is a powerful call for acceptance and understanding, making it an essential read for anyone interested in neurodiversity and mental health[2][3][5].
Laziness Does Not Exist
Devin Price
Unlearning Shame
Devin Price
Unmasking for Life
Devon Price
Unmasking for Life offers practical tools and strategies for autistic individuals to advocate for their needs and create authentic lives. It focuses on developing five key skills: acceptance of change, engagement in productive conflict, transgression of unfair rules, tolerance of distress, and creation of new accommodations. The book aims to help autistic people move beyond internal healing and build fulfilling relationships and lives.
Hey team!
Today, we dive deep with Dr. Devon Price, a social psychologist known for his groundbreaking work on neurodiversity and societal expectations. Dr. Price, who identifies as transgender and autistic, brings a wealth of experience and personal insight to our discussion, focusing on the complexities of masking in neurodivergent individuals. Price graduated with a BA in psychology and political science from Ohio State University in 2009, and he obtained his MS and PhD from Loyola University Chicago, where he has been teaching as a clinical assistant professor at the School of Continuing and Professional Studies since 2012. You can find Dr. Price’s research in journals such as the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, and the Journal of Positive Psychology.
Dr. Price is also the author of the books Laziness Does Not Exist, Unmasking Autism, and Unlearning Shame. His new book Unmasking for Life is set to be released on March 25th - so if you’re listening to this when it comes out tomorrow.
I imagine with those book titles; you might have a good sense of where this episode is heading - although I will say that despite Dr. Price’s focus on autism, these concepts absolutely apply to ADHD as well, and we definitely get into how they differ. In this episode, we explore the survival strategies behind masking and how these can morph into rigid personas that are hard to shed. We also unpack the nuances of camouflage and compensation in social interactions, the strategic yet often oppressive need to conform, and strategies for managing and minimizing masking in daily life. Dr. Price's expertise is not only academic; his lived experience enriches our understanding of these dynamics, making this episode a must-listen for anyone navigating the intricacies of neurodivergence.
If you'd life to follow along on the show notes page you can find that at HackingYourADHD.com/216
This Episode's Top Tips
It’s important to recognize masking as a tool that is not inherently good or bad. With that in mind, we can make conscious choices about how and when we want to be masking.
While it can be hard to find places to authentically be yourself and unmask, it’s important to find these spaces. These can be with friends and family, or if those are hard to find, there are many online communities to explore.
For some, consistently masking can make it hard to remember who is under the mask. To help remove that mask, you can gradually work on introducing authentic traits or behaviors in safe spaces to reduce the psychological strain of constant masking.
Additionally, you can consider professional guidance to help with unmasking, focusing on therapy that respects and understands neurodivergent experiences.
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