
Neurodivergent individuals—particularly those with ADHD and autism — often face unique emotional and social challenges. Two commonly discussed experiences in clinical settings are Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) and camouflaging (or masking). Although distinct, these phenomena often overlap, influencing each other and shaping how neurodivergent individuals navigate social environments and manage emotional health.
This article will explore RSD and camouflaging, their intersection, and the psychological toll they can take. We will also consider the mental health implications and outline therapeutic approaches for supporting those affected.
1. What is Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)?
Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) refers to an overwhelming emotional response to real or perceived rejection or criticism. It is frequently observed in individuals with ADHD but can affect others with neurodivergent conditions. The term "dysphoria" reflects the distress involved, often characterised by intense feelings of shame, humiliation, or anger that far exceed the actual social context.
RSD is linked to emotional dysregulation, a core feature of ADHD. Differences in brain function—especially in areas like the prefrontal cortex and amygdala, responsible for emotional regulation and threat detection—can result in hypersensitivity to criticism. For individuals with ADHD, even minor social interactions can trigger intense emotional reactions. This heightened sensitivity is more than a need for approval; it stems from neurobiological processes that make emotional regulation particularly difficult.
In clinical practice, individuals with RSD often describe feeling emotionally "flooded" by minor remarks or constructive feedback, leading to intense emotional distress. This emotional reactivity isn't simply a preference for positive feedback but a deep, neurological difficulty in managing perceived rejection.
2. What is Camouflaging?
Camouflaging refers to the behaviours neurodivergent individuals—especially autistic individuals and those with ADHD—use to conceal their natural tendencies in order to fit into neurotypical environments. These behaviours range from modifying social interactions to suppressing emotional responses or hiding cognitive struggles, all with the goal of avoiding judgment or criticism. Some authors have grouped intellectualisation, assimilation, compensation and masking as types of camouflaging behaviours.
Different schools of thought use "masking" or "camouflaging" interchangeably, but both terms describe a social survival strategy employed to navigate environments where neurodivergent traits may be misunderstood or stigmatised.
Camouflaging is not simply about pretending or faking to fit in; it is a complex and often unconscious process aimed at minimising social risks. Neurodivergent individuals may suppress their true selves to avoid judgment, exclusion, or ridicule, but this comes at a significant emotional and psychological cost.
Understanding camouflaging as an adaptive but exhausting survival mechanism is key to reducing the emotional burden it creates, while fostering environments that promote greater acceptance of neurodivergent traits.
3. The Overlap of RSD and Camouflaging: Emotional Survival Strategies
While RSD and camouflaging are distinct, they frequently overlap, influencing neurodivergent individuals' emotional and social experiences.
RSD as a Driver of Camouflaging
For individuals with RSD, the fear of rejection is heightened, making camouflaging a protective mechanism. The overwhelming sensitivity to social disapproval can lead individuals to hide their neurodivergent traits, especially in situations where rejection feels imminent. This suppression of authenticity becomes a strategy to avoid triggering the intense emotional distress associated with RSD.
Camouflaging as a Response to Rejection
Camouflaging often arises from repeated experiences of rejection. Neurodivergent individuals who have been criticised or excluded for their behaviours may develop camouflaging strategies to "pass" in neurotypical environments. For those with RSD, the emotional weight of rejection reinforces this behaviour, making it feel essential to avoid further emotional harm.
Over time, this creates a cycle: camouflaging may lead to short-term social acceptance, but it also contributes to feelings of emotional exhaustion, disconnection from one's true self, and heightened sensitivity to rejection.
Emotional Exhaustion from Both RSD & Camouflaging
Both RSD and camouflaging contribute to significant emotional strain. RSD heightens sensitivity to rejection, while camouflaging requires constant effort to suppress authentic traits. Together, they can lead to emotional burnout, anxiety, and depression, as individuals feel trapped between a fear of rejection and the exhausting task of maintaining a façade.
This emotional exhaustion is a common theme in therapy with neurodivergent clients, where the need for constant vigilance in social settings leads to profound disconnection and fatigue.
4. Distinguishing Between RSD and Camouflaging
Despite their overlap, it’s important to distinguish RSD from camouflaging to fully understand their roles in neurodivergent individuals' lives:
RSD is primarily an emotional and psychological response, characterised by intense feelings triggered by rejection or criticism. It reflects heightened emotional reactivity and stems from neurological factors affecting emotional regulation.
Camouflaging is a behavioural strategy where individuals suppress or mask neurodivergent traits to conform to social norms. It is a learned, adaptive behaviour used to reduce the risk of rejection, regardless of the presence of RSD's emotional intensity.
By understanding these differences, therapists can better support neurodivergent individuals in addressing both the emotional impact of rejection and the behavioural costs of masking.
5. Psychological Interventions: Managing RSD and Reducing Camouflaging
Effective therapeutic interventions for RSD and camouflaging must address both the emotional and behavioural dimensions of these experiences. Several approaches have proven helpful:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for RSD: CBT helps individuals manage the intense emotional reactions triggered by rejection. Through cognitive restructuring and emotional regulation techniques, clients can develop resilience and learn to respond to perceived rejection with greater emotional balance.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Camouflaging: ACT encourages individuals to accept their neurodivergent traits rather than suppress them. By fostering self-compassion and encouraging authenticity, ACT reduces reliance on camouflaging as a coping mechanism.
Psychoeducation and Social Skills Training: Providing education about RSD and camouflaging helps individuals better understand their emotional and behavioural patterns. Social skills training can empower neurodivergent individuals to engage in social interactions more confidently and authentically, reducing the need for masking.
Conclusion
Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria and camouflaging are deeply intertwined experiences for many neurodivergent individuals. RSD amplifies emotional sensitivity to rejection, while camouflaging serves as a behavioural strategy to mitigate this pain. However, both create significant emotional strain, contributing to burnout, anxiety, and identity confusion.
By distinguishing between these experiences and addressing them through evidence-based therapeutic interventions, we can support neurodivergent individuals in fostering self-acceptance, building emotional resilience, and navigating social environments with less fear of rejection and a reduced need to mask their true selves.
At Neurodiverse You (NDY), we offer tailored support to help neurodivergent individuals manage the emotional and social challenges associated with RSD and camouflaging. Whether through one-on-one therapy, psychoeducation, or social skills training, our team is here to guide you on your journey towards authenticity and self-compassion. Visit our website at neurodiverseyou.com to learn more about our services and how we can support you or your loved one today.
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