Wise Workshop: Internal Presentation of Autism

About the event

Autism is often associated with visible behaviours, but for many children and young people, autistic traits can be largely internalised and therefore easily overlooked. These individuals may work hard to fit in, mask their difficulties, to meet expectations, often at the expense of their own wellbeing.

Sometimes referred to as the “female presentation” of autism, we now recognise that internalised presentations can occur in people of any gender. While challenges may be less visible in school or social settings, they can lead to significant anxiety, exhaustion, perfectionism, emotional overwhelm, and difficulties that emerge primarily at home.

This workshop will explore:
What is meant by an internal presentation of autism.
The differences between internal and external presentations of autism.
How masking and camouflaging can affect a child’s wellbeing.
The links between autism, anxiety, perfectionism, and emotional exhaustion.
Why some autistic children appear to cope well in school but struggle at home.