What Is Masking? Understanding Camouflaging and Its Impact

Masking, also known as camouflaging, involves concealing one’s true feelings, personality, or characteristics. Learn more about masking and how it impacts individuals on WHAT.EDU.VN. Discover how to find quick answers to your questions and gain insights into related topics such as social mimicry, impression management, and self-presentation strategies.

1. What Is Masking and Why Do People Do It?

Masking, also known as social camouflaging, is a behavior where individuals consciously or unconsciously conceal or suppress aspects of their personality, feelings, or behaviors to fit in or meet social expectations. People mask for various reasons, including a desire to be accepted, avoid stigma, or protect themselves from negative judgment. According to a study in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, many individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) use masking as a strategy to navigate social situations, often mimicking neurotypical behaviors.

Here’s a deeper dive into the reasons and motivations behind masking:

Social Acceptance: A primary driver for masking is the desire to fit in and be accepted by peers, family, or society. Individuals might feel pressure to conform to social norms and expectations, leading them to hide aspects of themselves that they believe deviate from these norms.
Avoiding Stigma: Masking can be a protective mechanism against potential stigma or discrimination. People might conceal certain traits or behaviors to avoid being labeled, ridiculed, or excluded. This is particularly common among individuals with conditions like autism, where societal misconceptions can lead to unfair treatment.
Protecting Oneself: Masking can serve as a way to protect oneself from negative judgment or criticism. By presenting a socially acceptable facade, individuals might hope to avoid unwanted attention or scrutiny. This can be especially relevant in situations where vulnerability is perceived as a weakness.
Meeting Social Expectations: People often mask to meet specific social expectations in different contexts. For example, an individual might act differently at work than they do at home, adjusting their behavior to align with the norms and expectations of each environment.
Internalized Beliefs: Masking can also stem from internalized beliefs about oneself. If someone believes that certain aspects of their personality are undesirable or unacceptable, they might actively try to suppress or hide them.
Coping Mechanism: Masking can develop as a coping mechanism for dealing with challenging social situations. By carefully controlling their behavior, individuals might feel more in control and less anxious in social settings.
Cultural Influences: Cultural norms and values can play a significant role in masking. In some cultures, there might be stronger expectations for conformity and adherence to social conventions, leading individuals to mask more frequently.
Fear of Rejection: The fear of rejection is a powerful motivator for masking. People might worry that if they reveal their true selves, they will be rejected by others, leading them to hide aspects of their personality or experiences.
Maintaining Relationships: Masking can be used to maintain relationships with others. Individuals might suppress their own needs or desires to avoid conflict or to please their partners, friends, or family members.
Professional Advancement: In the workplace, masking can be used as a strategy for professional advancement. Individuals might adopt behaviors or attitudes that they believe will make them more successful, even if those behaviors are not authentic to their true selves.

2. What Are the Different Types of Masking?

There are several ways individuals mask, each serving different purposes and manifesting in various behaviors. Here are some common types of masking:

Social Mimicry: Copying the behaviors, mannerisms, and social cues of others to blend in.
Impression Management: Consciously controlling how one is perceived by others, often in professional or public settings.
Suppression of Emotions: Hiding or minimizing one’s true feelings to appear composed or avoid negative reactions.
Compensatory Strategies: Developing specific techniques to navigate social situations, such as preparing conversation topics or rehearsing responses.

Understanding the different types of masking can provide insights into the strategies people use to manage their social interactions and how these strategies can impact their well-being.

3. How Is Masking Related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Masking is commonly observed in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), often as a conscious or unconscious strategy to navigate social situations and fit in with neurotypical peers. According to research published in the journal Autism, masking in individuals with ASD involves suppressing autistic traits, mimicking neurotypical behaviors, and learning social scripts to appear more socially adept.

3.1 Why Do Individuals With ASD Engage in Masking?

Individuals with ASD may engage in masking for several reasons:

Social Acceptance: To avoid being perceived as different or “weird.”
Avoiding Bullying: To protect themselves from teasing, bullying, or social exclusion.
Meeting Expectations: To meet the social expectations of family, friends, and educators.
Professional Success: To succeed in the workplace by appearing more socially competent.

3.2 What Are Some Common Masking Behaviors in ASD?

Common masking behaviors in individuals with ASD include:

Mimicking Facial Expressions: Copying the facial expressions of others to convey appropriate emotions.
Forcing Eye Contact: Making deliberate eye contact, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Scripting Conversations: Preparing and rehearsing conversation topics and responses.
Suppressing Stimming: Hiding or minimizing repetitive behaviors, such as hand-flapping or rocking.
Camouflaging Interests: Pretending to share interests with others to fit in.

3.3 What Are the Potential Consequences of Masking in ASD?

While masking may help individuals with ASD navigate social situations, it can also have negative consequences:

Emotional Exhaustion: The constant effort to maintain a facade can lead to burnout and emotional exhaustion.
Loss of Identity: Masking can result in a disconnect from one’s true self, leading to feelings of inauthenticity and loss of identity.
Increased Anxiety and Depression: The pressure to conform and suppress one’s natural behaviors can contribute to anxiety and depression.
Delayed Diagnosis: Masking can make it more difficult for individuals with ASD to be diagnosed, delaying access to appropriate support and interventions.

3.4 How Can Professionals Support Individuals With ASD Who Mask?

Professionals can support individuals with ASD who mask by:

Promoting Self-Acceptance: Encouraging individuals to embrace their unique strengths and differences.
Teaching Self-Advocacy Skills: Helping individuals learn how to communicate their needs and boundaries effectively.
Providing Safe Spaces: Creating environments where individuals feel comfortable being themselves without the pressure to conform.
Educating Others: Raising awareness among family, friends, and educators about the challenges of masking and the importance of acceptance and support.

Understanding the complexities of masking in ASD is crucial for providing effective support and promoting the well-being of individuals on the spectrum.

4. What Are the Signs of Masking?

Identifying masking can be challenging, as the behavior is often subtle and intentional. However, recognizing the signs can help in understanding oneself or others better.

4.1 Behavioral Signs

Behavioral signs of masking include:

Inconsistencies in Behavior: Acting differently in public versus private settings.
Overanalyzing Social Interactions: Spending excessive time reflecting on and critiquing social encounters.
Mimicking Others: Copying the behaviors, speech patterns, or mannerisms of those around them.
Difficulty Relaxing: Appearing tense or uncomfortable in social situations.

4.2 Emotional Signs

Emotional signs of masking may include:

Emotional Exhaustion: Feeling drained or burnt out after social interactions.
Increased Anxiety: Experiencing heightened anxiety in social situations or when thinking about them.
Feelings of Inauthenticity: Feeling like one is not being true to oneself.
Depression: Experiencing symptoms of depression due to the constant strain of masking.

4.3 Physical Signs

Physical signs of masking can manifest as:

Fatigue: Persistent tiredness, even after adequate rest.
Muscle Tension: Physical tension, particularly in the shoulders, neck, or jaw.
Digestive Issues: Gastrointestinal problems related to stress and anxiety.
Headaches: Frequent headaches or migraines.

4.4 Social Signs

Social signs of masking might involve:

Difficulty Forming Close Relationships: Struggling to form genuine connections with others.
Social Withdrawal: Avoiding social situations or preferring to be alone.
People-Pleasing Behavior: Consistently prioritizing the needs and expectations of others.
Over-Apologizing: Frequently apologizing, even when not necessary.

4.5 Cognitive Signs

Cognitive signs of masking could include:

Rumination: Constantly dwelling on past social interactions.
Perfectionism: Striving for flawless social performance.
Self-Criticism: Harshly judging oneself for perceived social missteps.
Mental Exhaustion: Experiencing mental fatigue due to the cognitive load of masking.

Being aware of these signs can help individuals recognize when they or someone they know might be engaging in masking behaviors. This awareness can then lead to seeking support and developing healthier coping strategies.

5. What Are the Potential Downsides of Masking?

While masking can be a useful strategy for navigating social situations, it can also have significant downsides.

5.1 Mental Health Impacts

Masking can take a toll on mental health, potentially leading to:

Increased Stress and Anxiety: The constant effort to maintain a facade can elevate stress levels and trigger anxiety disorders.
Depression: Suppressing one’s true self can contribute to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and depression.
Burnout: The emotional and mental exhaustion from masking can lead to burnout, characterized by fatigue, cynicism, and reduced performance.
Loss of Identity: Over time, masking can blur the sense of self, making it difficult to know one’s true preferences, values, and identity.

5.2 Social Impacts

Masking can affect social relationships, resulting in:

Difficulty Forming Genuine Connections: It can be challenging to form authentic connections when one is not being true to oneself.
Feelings of Isolation: Masking can lead to feelings of isolation, as individuals may feel disconnected from others and themselves.
Strained Relationships: Relationships can suffer when one partner is not being genuine or open.

5.3 Physical Health Impacts

The strain of masking can also manifest in physical health problems, such as:

Chronic Fatigue: The constant effort to maintain a facade can lead to persistent fatigue.
Digestive Issues: Stress and anxiety related to masking can disrupt the digestive system.
Headaches: Tension and stress can trigger headaches and migraines.
Sleep Disturbances: The mental and emotional strain of masking can interfere with sleep patterns.

5.4 Impact on Self-Awareness

Masking can hinder self-awareness by:

Distorting Self-Perception: It can create a distorted view of oneself, making it difficult to understand one’s true strengths, weaknesses, and needs.
Reduced Self-Esteem: The constant need to conform can undermine self-esteem and self-worth.

5.5 Professional Impacts

In the workplace, masking can lead to:

Burnout: The pressure to maintain a professional facade can lead to burnout and reduced job satisfaction.
Difficulty with Collaboration: It can be challenging to collaborate effectively when one is not being authentic and open.
Reduced Creativity: The need to conform can stifle creativity and innovation.

Understanding these potential downsides can help individuals make informed decisions about when and how to engage in masking behaviors. Recognizing the impact on one’s overall well-being is crucial for developing healthier coping strategies and fostering genuine connections.

6. How Can You Stop Masking?

Unmasking, or the process of revealing one’s authentic self, can be a liberating but also challenging journey. It involves self-reflection, self-acceptance, and a willingness to be vulnerable. Here are some steps to help you stop masking:

6.1 Self-Reflection and Awareness

Identify Masking Behaviors: Begin by identifying specific situations where you engage in masking. What behaviors do you change or suppress? Why do you feel the need to mask in these situations?
Understand Your Triggers: Determine what triggers your need to mask. Are there specific people, places, or circumstances that make you feel compelled to hide your true self?
Journaling: Keep a journal to document your experiences with masking. Write about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in different social situations. This can help you gain clarity and insight into your patterns.
Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness to become more aware of your thoughts and feelings in the moment. This can help you catch yourself when you start to mask and make conscious choices about how to respond.

6.2 Self-Acceptance and Compassion

Challenge Negative Beliefs: Identify and challenge any negative beliefs you have about yourself that contribute to masking. Replace these beliefs with positive affirmations and self-compassionate statements.
Embrace Your Strengths: Focus on your strengths and unique qualities. Recognize that your differences are what make you special and valuable.
Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, especially when you make mistakes or experience setbacks. Remember that everyone is imperfect and deserving of compassion.
Seek Positive Role Models: Look for role models who embrace their authentic selves and inspire you to do the same.

6.3 Gradual Unmasking

Start Small: Begin by unmasking in safe and supportive environments, such as with close friends, family members, or in therapy.
Be Authentic in Your Communication: Express your thoughts and feelings honestly and openly. Share your true opinions and preferences, even if they differ from those of others.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say “no” to requests or situations that don’t align with your values or needs. Prioritize your well-being and don’t feel pressured to conform to others’ expectations.
Practice Vulnerability: Share your vulnerabilities and imperfections with others. Allow yourself to be seen as you truly are, without fear of judgment or rejection.

6.4 Seeking Support

Therapy: Work with a therapist or counselor who can provide guidance and support as you navigate the unmasking process. Therapy can help you explore your feelings, challenge negative beliefs, and develop healthier coping strategies.
Support Groups: Join a support group for individuals who are also working on unmasking. Sharing your experiences and connecting with others who understand can be incredibly validating and empowering.
Trusted Friends and Family: Lean on trusted friends and family members for support. Share your struggles and successes with them, and ask for their encouragement and understanding.
Online Communities: Engage with online communities and forums where you can connect with others who are on a similar journey. Online communities can provide a sense of belonging and offer valuable resources and advice.

6.5 Self-Care and Boundaries

Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a priority in your life. Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit, such as exercise, meditation, creative expression, and spending time in nature.
Set Realistic Expectations: Be patient with yourself and recognize that unmasking is a gradual process. Don’t expect to change overnight, and celebrate small victories along the way.
Establish Boundaries: Set clear boundaries with others to protect your time, energy, and emotional well-being. Communicate your needs and expectations assertively and don’t be afraid to say “no” when necessary.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind and gentle with yourself as you navigate the unmasking process. Remember that it’s okay to make mistakes and that you are worthy of love and acceptance, just as you are.

6.6 Embracing Authenticity

Express Your True Interests: Pursue your passions and interests, even if they are unconventional or different from those of others. Allow yourself to be enthusiastic and passionate about the things you love.
Celebrate Your Uniqueness: Embrace your unique qualities and celebrate what makes you different. Recognize that your individuality is a gift and that you have something special to offer the world.
Live Authentically: Strive to live your life in alignment with your values and beliefs. Make choices that reflect your true self and don’t compromise your integrity to please others.
Accept Imperfection: Embrace your imperfections and recognize that it’s okay to be flawed. Allow yourself to make mistakes and learn from them, without beating yourself up or striving for perfection.

By following these steps, you can begin to unmask and embrace your authentic self, leading to greater self-acceptance, healthier relationships, and a more fulfilling life.

7. What Are Some Tips for Supporting Someone Who Is Masking?

Supporting someone who is masking requires empathy, understanding, and a commitment to creating a safe and accepting environment. Here are some tips for how to best support someone who is masking:

7.1 Educate Yourself

Learn About Masking: Take the time to educate yourself about what masking is, why people do it, and its potential impact. Understanding the complexities of masking will help you be more empathetic and supportive.
Understand the Person’s Context: Consider the individual’s background, experiences, and challenges. What might be motivating them to mask? What fears or concerns might they have?

7.2 Create a Safe Space

Be Accepting and Non-Judgmental: Create an environment where the person feels safe to be themselves without fear of judgment or criticism. Avoid making assumptions or stereotypes.
Listen Actively: Listen attentively when the person is speaking, without interrupting or offering unsolicited advice. Show that you value their thoughts and feelings.
Validate Their Experiences: Acknowledge and validate the person’s experiences, even if you don’t fully understand them. Let them know that their feelings are valid and that you are there to support them.
Respect Their Boundaries: Respect the person’s boundaries and don’t pressure them to share more than they are comfortable with. Allow them to set the pace for their own self-disclosure.

7.3 Encourage Self-Acceptance

Highlight Their Strengths: Focus on the person’s strengths and unique qualities. Remind them of their accomplishments and the things that make them special.
Promote Self-Compassion: Encourage the person to be kind and gentle with themselves, especially when they make mistakes or experience setbacks. Remind them that everyone is imperfect and deserving of compassion.
Challenge Negative Beliefs: Help the person challenge any negative beliefs they have about themselves. Encourage them to replace these beliefs with positive affirmations and self-compassionate statements.

7.4 Support Their Unmasking Journey

Be Patient and Understanding: Unmasking is a gradual process, so be patient and understanding. Don’t expect the person to change overnight, and celebrate small victories along the way.
Offer Encouragement: Provide ongoing encouragement and support as the person works to unmask. Let them know that you believe in them and that you are there to support them every step of the way.
Respect Their Choices: Respect the person’s choices about when and how to unmask. Don’t pressure them to do anything they are not comfortable with, and honor their decisions.
Provide Resources: Offer resources and information that can help the person on their unmasking journey. This might include books, articles, websites, support groups, or therapists.

7.5 Advocate for Their Needs

Educate Others: Help educate others about masking and the challenges it presents. Raise awareness among family, friends, and colleagues about the importance of acceptance and support.
Challenge Stigma: Challenge stigma and stereotypes related to masking. Speak out against discrimination and prejudice, and promote inclusivity and understanding.
Create Inclusive Environments: Work to create inclusive environments where everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of their differences. Advocate for policies and practices that support diversity and inclusion.

7.6 Practice Empathy

Put Yourself in Their Shoes: Try to imagine what it might be like to be in the person’s shoes. How might they be feeling? What challenges might they be facing?
Listen Without Judgment: Listen to the person’s experiences without judgment or criticism. Show that you are truly interested in understanding their perspective.
Validate Their Emotions: Validate the person’s emotions, even if you don’t fully understand them. Let them know that their feelings are valid and that you are there to support them.

By following these tips, you can provide meaningful support to someone who is masking, helping them to feel more accepted, understood, and empowered to embrace their authentic self.

Two people having a heartfelt conversation, symbolizing empathy and support for someone who is masking

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Masking

Question	Answer
What is the difference between masking and camouflaging?	Masking and camouflaging are often used interchangeably to describe the process of concealing one’s true self or characteristics.
Is masking always a conscious behavior?	No, masking can be both conscious and unconscious. Sometimes, individuals may not even realize they are masking.
Can masking be a positive thing?	While masking can sometimes help individuals navigate social situations, it is generally associated with negative consequences, such as emotional exhaustion and loss of identity.
How does masking affect mental health?	Masking can contribute to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. It can also lead to a disconnect from one’s true self.
What are some common signs of masking in social situations?	Common signs include inconsistencies in behavior, overanalyzing social interactions, mimicking others, and difficulty relaxing.
Is masking more common in certain groups of people?	Masking is frequently observed in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions, as well as in marginalized groups who may feel pressure to conform to societal norms.
How can I help someone who is masking?	Support them by creating a safe space, encouraging self-acceptance, validating their experiences, and respecting their boundaries. Educate yourself about masking to better understand their challenges.
What are some strategies for unmasking?	Strategies for unmasking include self-reflection, self-compassion, gradual unmasking in safe environments, seeking support from therapists or support groups, and practicing self-care and setting boundaries.
Can masking delay diagnosis of certain conditions?	Yes, masking can make it more difficult for individuals with ASD and other conditions to be diagnosed, delaying access to appropriate support and interventions.
How does masking affect relationships?	Masking can strain relationships by hindering genuine connections and leading to feelings of isolation. It can be challenging to form authentic bonds when one is not being true to oneself.

9. The Impact of Masking on Different Age Groups

Masking can manifest differently and have varying impacts across different age groups, reflecting the changing social demands and developmental stages individuals experience throughout their lives.

9.1 Children (Ages 5-12)

Manifestation: In children, masking often involves mimicking the behaviors of their peers to fit in at school or in social groups. They may suppress their natural interests or stimming behaviors to avoid being seen as different.
Impact: The pressure to conform can lead to increased anxiety and stress. Children may struggle with feelings of inadequacy and develop a fear of rejection. Over time, masking can hinder the development of a strong sense of self.
Support: Parents and educators can support children by creating a safe and accepting environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves. Encouraging self-acceptance and providing positive reinforcement for their unique qualities can help build confidence and resilience.

9.2 Adolescents (Ages 13-19)

Manifestation: Adolescents often engage in masking to navigate the complex social dynamics of high school and peer groups. They may alter their appearance, interests, or behaviors to gain acceptance and avoid bullying or social exclusion.
Impact: Masking during adolescence can lead to significant identity confusion and feelings of alienation. The constant pressure to conform can contribute to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Some adolescents may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse or self-harm.
Support: Mentors and counselors can provide guidance and support to adolescents, helping them explore their identity and develop a strong sense of self-worth. Creating opportunities for authentic self-expression and fostering supportive peer relationships can promote mental well-being.

9.3 Young Adults (Ages 20-30)

Manifestation: Young adults may mask to succeed in college, the workplace, or romantic relationships. They may suppress their true feelings or interests to meet the expectations of their peers or superiors.
Impact: Masking can lead to burnout and a lack of fulfillment in their personal and professional lives. They may struggle with feelings of inauthenticity and have difficulty forming genuine connections with others.
Support: Support groups and therapy can provide young adults with a space to explore their identity and develop healthier coping strategies. Encouraging self-care and setting realistic expectations can help them prioritize their well-being and reduce stress.

9.4 Middle-Aged Adults (Ages 31-60)

Manifestation: Middle-aged adults may mask to maintain their professional image, fulfill family responsibilities, or conform to societal norms. They may suppress their emotions or needs to avoid conflict or maintain stability.
Impact: Masking can lead to chronic stress, physical health problems, and a sense of emptiness or regret. They may experience a midlife crisis as they question their life choices and wonder if they have been living authentically.
Support: Counseling and support groups can help middle-aged adults explore their values and priorities, make positive changes in their lives, and develop a stronger sense of self-worth. Encouraging self-reflection and self-compassion can promote emotional well-being.

9.5 Older Adults (Ages 61+)

Manifestation: Older adults may mask to maintain their independence, avoid being seen as a burden, or conform to ageist stereotypes. They may suppress their health concerns or emotional needs to maintain a positive image.
Impact: Masking can lead to social isolation, physical health problems, and a decline in overall well-being. They may struggle with feelings of loneliness and a lack of purpose in their lives.
Support: Caregivers and healthcare professionals can provide older adults with support and encouragement to express their needs and preferences. Creating opportunities for social engagement and meaningful activities can promote a sense of connection and purpose.

Understanding the impact of masking across different age groups can help individuals and professionals provide targeted support and promote authentic self-expression at every stage of life.

10. Cultural Differences in Masking

Masking behaviors and attitudes toward authenticity can vary significantly across different cultures, influenced by factors such as collectivism, individualism, power dynamics, and social norms.

10.1 Collectivist Cultures

Characteristics: In collectivist cultures, such as many East Asian and Latin American countries, there is a strong emphasis on group harmony, social cohesion, and interdependence. Individuals are often expected to prioritize the needs of the group over their own desires.
Masking Behaviors: Masking is often seen as a necessary and even virtuous behavior in collectivist cultures. Individuals may suppress their true feelings or opinions to avoid conflict, maintain face, and preserve social harmony. Conformity and adherence to social norms are highly valued.
Impact: While masking can promote social cohesion, it can also lead to a suppression of individual expression and a lack of authenticity. Individuals may struggle with feelings of inauthenticity and have difficulty forming genuine connections with others.
Examples: In Japan, the concept of “tatemae” refers to the behaviors and opinions one displays in public, which may differ from one’s true feelings or “honne.” Similarly, in many Latin American cultures, maintaining a harmonious social environment is prioritized, and individuals may avoid expressing negative emotions or dissenting opinions.

10.2 Individualistic Cultures

Characteristics: In individualistic cultures, such as many Western European and North American countries, there is a strong emphasis on individual autonomy, self-expression, and personal achievement. Individuals are encouraged to be independent, assertive, and true to themselves.
Masking Behaviors: While masking still occurs in individualistic cultures, there is generally a greater emphasis on authenticity and self-expression. Individuals may mask to succeed in the workplace or conform to certain social expectations, but there is also a value placed on being genuine and true to oneself.
Impact: While individualistic cultures may promote self-expression, they can also lead to a pressure to be “perfect” or to conform to certain ideals of success and happiness. Individuals may struggle with feelings of inadequacy if they feel they are not living up to these expectations.
Examples: In the United States, there is a strong emphasis on being “authentic” and “true to oneself.” However, individuals may still engage in masking to succeed in their careers or to maintain certain social relationships.

10.3 Power Dynamics

Influence: Power dynamics within a culture can also influence masking behaviors. In cultures with strong hierarchical structures, individuals in positions of lower power may feel compelled to mask their true feelings or opinions to avoid offending those in positions of higher power.
Examples: In some workplaces, employees may feel pressure to agree with their superiors, even if they have dissenting opinions. Similarly, in some families, children may feel they need to conform to their parents’ expectations, even if they disagree with them.

10.4 Social Norms

Impact: Social norms and expectations can vary significantly across cultures, influencing how individuals behave and express themselves. In some cultures, it may be considered rude or inappropriate to express strong emotions, while in others, it may be seen as a sign of authenticity.
Examples: In some cultures, it is considered polite to smile and be friendly, even if you are feeling unhappy. In others, it is more acceptable to express a wider range of emotions.

Understanding these cultural differences can help individuals and professionals be more sensitive and respectful when interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds. Recognizing that masking behaviors can be influenced by cultural norms can promote empathy and understanding.

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