Cultural influences on camouflaging and autistic burnout: Examining the experiences of Latino autistic young adults

The present study explored the relationship between camouflaging, autistic burnout, and cultural factors in Latino young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While autistic burnout and camouflaging have been widely studied in general ASD populations, limited research has focused on Latino individuals, who may experience unique pressures due to cultural values such as collectivism, familism, and traditional gender roles. Participants (<i>N</i> = 56) from the ¡Iniciando! la Adultez therapy program completed measures assessing burnout, camouflaging, acculturation, and cultural values. Results indicate that participants reported moderate to high levels of autistic burnout, with the highest levels observed in heightened self-awareness and cognitive disruption. Camouflaging behaviors were prevalent, with compensation being the most frequently used strategy. Cultural values, especially Mexican American values related to independence and familism, were positively correlated with burnout severity. In addition, camouflaging behaviors were significantly associated with higher adaptive functioning, particularly in conceptual, social, and practical domains, and were predictive of increased anxiety and depression. Acculturation stress and traditional gender role values were found to influence camouflaging strategies. These findings highlight the complex interplay between cultural expectations, camouflaging, and burnout in Latino autistic young adults, underscoring the need for culturally responsive interventions to better support their well-being and autonomy.Lay AbstractAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects individuals in unique ways, and many people with ASD feel pressured to "mask" or hide certain aspects of themselves to fit societal expectations. This study explored the relationship between camouflaging, burnout, and cultural factors in Latino young adults with ASD. While burnout and camouflaging have been studied in general ASD populations, there is limited research on how Latino cultural values, such as family importance and traditional gender roles, influence these experiences. In this study, 56 participants from the ¡Iniciando! la Adultez therapy program completed surveys about their burnout, camouflaging, cultural values, and stress related to adapting to a new culture. The results showed that many participants experienced significant burnout, particularly in areas like self-awareness and cognitive challenges. Camouflaging, such as pretending to act "neurotypical," was common and linked to difficulties in social interactions and daily tasks, as well as higher levels of anxiety and depression. Cultural values, such as a strong focus on family, were related to higher burnout, and traditional gender roles influenced how participants camouflaged their autism. These findings highlight the need for societal change and culturally sensitive interventions that support Latino young adults with autism, helping them manage burnout and camouflaging while embracing their true identities.