Faculty, Staff and Student Publications
Language
English
Publication Date
2-1-2026
Journal
Autism
DOI
10.1177/13623613251380340
PMID
41133775
PMCID
PMC12614315
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
10-24-2025
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Abstract
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 (N = 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.
Keywords
Adolescent, Adult, Female, Humans, Male, Young Adult, Acculturation, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Burnout, Psychological, Hispanic or Latino, acculturation, autistic burnout, camouflaging, cultural values, Latino young adults
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
Antonio F Pagán, Katherine A Loveland, and Ron Acierno, "Cultural Influences on Camouflaging and Autistic Burnout: Examining the Experiences of Latino Autistic Young Adults" (2026). Faculty, Staff and Student Publications. 4337.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/uthmed_docs/4337