Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity

In Chapter 2, Price provides a comprehensive overview of various groups of masked Autistics, delving into the diverse ways Autism manifests across different demographics and personal experiences. The chapter provides an exploration of how societal expectations and biases influence the recognition and self-perception of Autistic individuals.

Price begins by discussing Autistic women and gender minorities, highlighting how societal norms around gender affect the perception and treatment of Autistic traits. Autistic girls, for instance, often face less concern for their shy and withdrawn behavior compared to boys. Their meltdowns are frequently dismissed as emotional outbursts, and they tend to develop quiet, inoffensive personalities to navigate social disadvantages. Price again criticizes the concept of “female Autism,” arguing that it is not a distinct subtype but rather a reflection of social expectations leading to masking behaviors. This masking is a response to neurodiversity not being taken seriously.

The chapter then shifts to the experiences of Black and brown Autistics, emphasizing how racism and historical biases in psychology and psychiatry have impacted the recognition and treatment of Autism in these communities. Autistic people of color often face challenges in accessing culturally competent healthcare and are less likely to be referred to Autism specialists.