Development and pilot evaluation of the Children's Masking Questionnaire.

INTRODUCTION: No tools currently exist to measure children's experience of masking/camouflaging autistic characteristics. METHOD: Using co-production approaches, we developed the Children's Masking Questionnaire (CMQ) and evaluated its acceptability and appropriateness as determined by family members, young people, and professionals through two qualitative studies. RESULTS: Participants felt the CMQ was useful and appropriate, and gave specific suggestions for improvement. Following refinement, a two-part CMQ (Adult Response and Child Response) and a Good Practice Guide were finalised, and are freely available to be used in research and practice. DISCUSSION: Future research should evaluate the CMQ in larger samples and compare its appropriateness across different neurodivergent and mental health conditions.