Project Details
Description
We live in a sensory-rich world – background sounds, variable lighting, strong smells and specific textures are all around us. While most people can subconsciously filter out some of these sensory inputs within their everyday environments, these sensory experiences can be overwhelming and distressing for many Autistic people. Through a myriad of societal pressures, misunderstandings, and subliminal messaging, Autistic people often feel compelled to hide or suppress their natural reaction to these environments – a process known as sensory masking.
Sensory masking includes consciously or unconsciously holding back behaviours that help manage distress – like covering ears, using noise-cancelling headphones, or stimming (self-regulatory actions).
This can happen in workplaces, classrooms, or public spaces where such behaviours are misunderstood or discouraged. While masking may help people “fit in” short-term, long-term suppression can take a serious toll on wellbeing, identity, and quality of life.
This research project aims to better understand how Autistic adults experience sensory masking, what drives it, and what supports are needed to reduce the pressure to mask. It will also explore how different environments – such as schools, workplaces, or social settings – shape these experiences.
There will be two phases in this project. In Phase 1, we will conduct interviews with 20 Autistic adults from diverse backgrounds, including non-speaking participants who use Augmentative and Alternative
Communication. In Phase 2, we will co-host focus groups with another 20 Autistic adults to reflect on the findings and co-develop educational tools and guidelines to support more inclusive, sensory-safe environments.
The project is guided by Autistic researchers, uses participatory approaches, and draws on the neurodiversity and social models of disability. It will be completed over 12 months, ensuring accessibility and national reach. By centering Autistic perspectives and experiences, this research aims
to drive real-world changes in how we understand, support, and design for sensory needs.
Sensory masking includes consciously or unconsciously holding back behaviours that help manage distress – like covering ears, using noise-cancelling headphones, or stimming (self-regulatory actions).
This can happen in workplaces, classrooms, or public spaces where such behaviours are misunderstood or discouraged. While masking may help people “fit in” short-term, long-term suppression can take a serious toll on wellbeing, identity, and quality of life.
This research project aims to better understand how Autistic adults experience sensory masking, what drives it, and what supports are needed to reduce the pressure to mask. It will also explore how different environments – such as schools, workplaces, or social settings – shape these experiences.
There will be two phases in this project. In Phase 1, we will conduct interviews with 20 Autistic adults from diverse backgrounds, including non-speaking participants who use Augmentative and Alternative
Communication. In Phase 2, we will co-host focus groups with another 20 Autistic adults to reflect on the findings and co-develop educational tools and guidelines to support more inclusive, sensory-safe environments.
The project is guided by Autistic researchers, uses participatory approaches, and draws on the neurodiversity and social models of disability. It will be completed over 12 months, ensuring accessibility and national reach. By centering Autistic perspectives and experiences, this research aims
to drive real-world changes in how we understand, support, and design for sensory needs.
| Status | Active |
|---|---|
| Effective start/end date | 1/07/25 → 1/08/26 |