Doctoral Candidate University of North Texas Plano, Texas, United States
Short Description: We all adapt our behaviors to manage the way others perceive us in social settings; but this camouflaging can negatively affect self-concept and identity formation. This session delves into the concept of masking, using relatable research and anecdotal humor to reveal the balance we must strike to appear competent/capable/appropriate while nurturing an authentic self that values differences and uniqueness.
Learning Objectives:
Define and differentiate between healthy social adaptation and potentially harmful masking/camouflaging behaviors, particularly within gifted and neurodivergent populations (recognizing the nuances between adaptive social skills and inauthentic self-presentation).
Identify effects of camouflaging—impact on self-concept, identity formation, and group dynamics—including complex effects of masking, both positive (e.g., increased group acceptance) and negative (e.g., hindered creativity, damaged self-esteem).
Gain practical strategies and actionable techniques to help gifted children navigate social expectations while fostering authentic self-expression and valuing individual differences.
