Analysis of concept of social camouflaging in patients with autism spectrum disorder

ObjectiveTo define the conceptual connotation of social camouflaging in individuals with autism spectrum disorder using the Walker and Avant classic concept analysis method.MethodsKeywords were used to search both Chinese and English databases,including PubMed, Web of Science,the Cochrane Library,OVID,EMbase,CNKI,VIP Chinese Journal Service Platform,Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform,and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database.Manual searches of related literature were also conducted.Literature published from the inception of the databases until March 1,2025 concerning social camouflaging in autism spectrum disorder was systematically screened and analyzed using the Walker and Avant classic concept analysis method.ResultsA total of 58 articles were included.The defining attributes of social camouflaging in individuals with autism spectrum disorder were identified as: masking characteristics,compensatory strategies,assimilation behaviors,and internalized stigma.Antecedents included socio-cultural factors, individual psychological factors, demographic factors, and social environmental factors.Consequences included both positive and negative impacts on autistic individuals, specifically facilitating social adaptation, impairing mental health,and hindering social support and interpersonal relationships.ConclusionsThe concept analysis of social camouflaging in autism spectrum disorder helps healthcare professionals accurately understand related symptoms in autistic patients,optimize diagnosis and treatment approaches, comprehend patients' social strategies and behaviors, and provides a basis for personalized interventions.