Autistic Traits and Camouflaging: A Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neurodiversity Studies
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Autistic individuals may camouflage autistic traits to appear non-autistic.
• Camouflaging can contribute to diagnostic delays and poorer mental health outcomes.
• Understanding the autistic trait-camouflaging relationship is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To rigorously test the relationship between autistic traits and camouflaging behaviors.
• To examine person- and study-level variables that influence this relationship.
• To provide a clearer understanding of the factors affecting autistic trait camouflaging.

Main Methods:

• A systematic search of multiple databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, ProQuest Dissertations) was conducted.
• Fifty quantitative studies (N=16,895) examining autistic traits and camouflaging on a continuum were included.
• A three-level meta-analysis was performed, accounting for dependent effect sizes and study quality.

Main Results:

• A moderate association (r=0.34) was found between autistic traits and camouflaging, consistent across sexes.
• Depression moderated the relationship, while age did not.
• The association was stronger in general population samples and when using self-report measures for both autism and camouflaging.

Conclusions:

• The relationship between autistic traits and camouflaging is nuanced, influenced by diagnostic status, depression, and measurement methods.
• Assimilation strategies were most strongly linked to autistic traits, followed by compensation and masking.
• Further research is needed to understand this relationship in diagnosed autistic populations, with implications for clinical practice and neurodiversity acceptance.