Understanding the Struggles of Neurodivergent Women in a Neurotypical World

Intended Audience and Purpose of the Article

This article is designed for a diverse audience: neurodivergent women navigating a neurotypical world, parents and caregivers seeking to better support their loved ones, educators fostering inclusive learning environments, employers striving to accommodate diverse talents, and mental health professionals advocating for well-rounded care.

Its purpose is twofold:

1. To shed light on the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent women, particularly those on the autism spectrum, in a society that prioritizes conformity to neurotypical norms.
2. To present actionable strategies for creating supportive, understanding, and inclusive environments that celebrate neurodiversity rather than stigmatizing it.

Introduction: Expanding the Scope of the Issue

The Burden of Societal Expectations

Women, across cultures and generations, have long been held to rigid standards of behavior and achievement. Society often measures their worth by their ability to exhibit traits such as emotional intelligence, relational harmony, and adaptability. These expectations, rooted in traditional norms, create a pressure to conform that can feel suffocating for any individual.

For neurotypical women, these pressures are already challenging. But for neurodivergent women—those whose brains process and respond to the world differently—the weight of these societal demands is amplified. They are often expected to intuitively “fit in” with unwritten social codes, effortlessly balance social roles, and exhibit traits that may not come naturally. When they fail to meet these expectations, they are frequently misjudged as cold, awkward, overly sensitive, or even incompetent.

The Compounded Struggles of Neurodivergent Women

Neurodivergent women, particularly those on the autism spectrum, often grapple with challenges that lie beneath the surface:

• Difficulty understanding or responding to implicit social cues such as tone, facial expressions, or unspoken rules of engagement.
• Emotional exhaustion from “masking,” a coping strategy where they mimic neurotypical behaviors to blend in, often at the cost of their mental health.
• Relational barriers that arise because their communication styles or interests may diverge from conventional norms, leaving them vulnerable to exclusion or misunderstanding.

These compounded struggles not only alienate neurodivergent women from their social circles but also foster feelings of shame, low self-worth, and self-doubt. In environments where their strengths—such as deep focus, creativity, and problem-solving skills—are overshadowed by their perceived “differences,” they may feel invisible, unsupported, or unworthy.

A Growing Awareness of Neurodiversity

In recent years, there has been an encouraging rise in conversations about neurodiversity, spurred by advocacy movements, research, and personal stories shared through social media and books. These discussions are beginning to challenge long-held stereotypes about autism and other forms of neurodivergence, emphasizing that these conditions are not deficits but differences.

However, the narrative around neurodiversity often centers on children or adult men, with the unique experiences of women receiving less attention. This gendered gap in understanding and support reflects broader societal biases, where the subtle ways neurodivergence manifests in women are overlooked or misunderstood. As a result, many neurodivergent women remain undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or unsupported until adulthood—when years of unaddressed struggles have already taken a toll on their mental and emotional health.

Purpose and Call to Action

This article seeks to address these gaps by exploring the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent women in a neurotypical world. It aims to shine a light on the intersection of societal expectations, gender norms, and neurodivergence, while offering practical, actionable solutions to foster inclusion and support.

By understanding the lived experiences of neurodivergent women, we can collectively work towards a society that values their strengths, accommodates their needs, and ensures their voices are heard. Whether you are a neurodivergent individual seeking validation, a parent striving to create a safe space, or a professional aiming to champion inclusivity, this article is an invitation to build a better, more empathetic world—one where diversity, in all its forms, is celebrated.

The Social Expectations and Pressure to Conform: Beyond Traditional Norms

The Weight of Societal Expectations

From an early age, women are conditioned to embody traits such as empathy, emotional intelligence, and social competence. They are expected to navigate social landscapes effortlessly, maintain harmony in relationships, and fulfill roles that often prioritize the needs of others over their own. These norms, while seemingly innocuous, create an invisible but heavy burden that many women carry throughout their lives.

For neurodivergent women, this burden is even more profound. Traits that society deems “feminine”—such as being approachable, emotionally intuitive, and socially adaptable—may not align with their natural ways of thinking and behaving. This misalignment can lead to misunderstandings, misjudgments, and feelings of inadequacy. The constant pressure to meet these expectations often pushes neurodivergent women into exhausting cycles of self-monitoring and adaptation.

Gendered and Cultural Norms

The challenges are further compounded by cultural and socioeconomic factors. In many cultures, women are not only expected to conform to societal norms but also to uphold traditions and family expectations. For example:

• In collectivist societies, there may be a stronger emphasis on family roles, obedience, and social participation, leaving little room for neurodivergent women to assert their individuality.
• Economic disparities can limit access to resources, such as therapy or supportive networks, which could otherwise help neurodivergent women navigate these pressures.

This intersection of gendered and cultural norms often creates a complex web of expectations, leaving neurodivergent women feeling trapped between societal demands and their authentic selves.

Challenges in Conformity

Neurodivergent women often face specific hurdles in meeting societal expectations, including:

• Difficulty in Reading Social Cues: Neurotypical communication often relies on unspoken rules, such as interpreting body language, tone, and facial expressions. Neurodivergent women may struggle to decode these cues, leading to awkward interactions, misunderstandings, or even social exclusion.
• The Emotional Cost of Masking: To avoid judgment or rejection, many neurodivergent women engage in “masking”—consciously imitating neurotypical behaviors such as smiling at the “right” moments, mirroring body language, or suppressing their natural responses. While masking can help them blend in, it comes at a significant emotional and psychological cost, including anxiety, exhaustion, and a diminished sense of self.

The Impact of Masking and Exhaustion

Masking may offer temporary relief from societal scrutiny, but the long-term effects can be detrimental. Neurodivergent women often describe the experience as living a double life—projecting an image that conforms to societal expectations while suppressing their true identities.

• Burnout and Emotional Exhaustion: The effort required to mask can lead to chronic burnout, where the mental and physical energy required to maintain appearances is unsustainable.
• Loss of Authentic Self-Expression: Over time, masking can erode an individual’s sense of self. Neurodivergent women may struggle to distinguish their authentic personalities from the facade they’ve created to fit in.

This constant state of tension—between the need for acceptance and the desire to be authentic—can lead to feelings of loneliness, frustration, and a deep sense of unworthiness.

Actionable Strategies

1. Encourage Diverse Communication Styles

Promote environments where different communication methods are not only accepted but celebrated. For example:

• In Social Settings: Allow neurodivergent women to engage in ways that feel natural to them, whether that involves written communication, direct verbal expression, or alternative forms of interaction.
• In Workplaces and Schools: Foster inclusive practices that reduce reliance on unwritten social rules, such as providing clear instructions and creating spaces where people feel safe to communicate without judgment.

2. Foster Open Dialogue Around Expectations

Create opportunities for conversations about societal expectations and their impact. This could involve:

• Community Education: Hosting workshops or discussions on neurodiversity to help neurotypical individuals understand the unique experiences of neurodivergent women.
• Personal Boundaries: Encouraging neurodivergent women to openly express their needs and boundaries without fear of reprisal.

3. Support Self-Acceptance

Help neurodivergent women embrace their authentic selves by challenging the idea that there’s a “right” way to be.

• Therapeutic Interventions: Provide access to therapy or counseling that focuses on self-acceptance and resilience-building.
• Celebrating Strengths: Shift the focus from deficits to strengths, such as creativity, problem-solving abilities, and unique perspectives, which are often overlooked in neurodivergent individuals.

By reimagining societal norms and creating space for authenticity, we can alleviate the immense pressure neurodivergent women face to conform. This not only benefits them but also enriches society with the diversity of thought, creativity, and perspectives they bring to the table.

Hidden Aggression and Social Complexity: The Unique Challenges for Women

Understanding Relational and Social Aggression

Social dynamics among women often include subtle forms of aggression, sometimes referred to as relational aggression. These behaviors include gossip, exclusion, passive-aggressiveness, and the manipulation of relationships to assert dominance or control. Unlike overt forms of bullying, relational aggression operates below the surface, making it harder to identify and address.

For neurodivergent women, this landscape is particularly fraught with difficulty:

• Difficulty Identifying Social Aggression: Neurodivergent women often struggle to interpret nuanced social cues that signal hostility, such as veiled insults or cold indifference.
• Heightened Vulnerability: The inability to “read between the lines” leaves them exposed to manipulation, social exclusion, or being the target of gossip, often without understanding why.

This covert hostility creates an environment of uncertainty and fear, where neurodivergent women feel they are navigating a social minefield.

Exclusion and Social Isolation

Relational aggression frequently results in exclusion, leaving neurodivergent women isolated from peers or social groups. This exclusion can stem from:

• Struggles to Adapt to Social Norms: Neurodivergent women may miss unspoken rules about group behavior, such as when and how to join conversations or the expected level of emotional reciprocity.
• Misunderstandings: Unique communication styles, special interests, or directness may be perceived as socially inappropriate or even threatening, further alienating neurodivergent individuals.

The impact of exclusion is profound:

• Emotional Toll: Chronic feelings of rejection can lead to anxiety, depression, and a sense of unworthiness.
• Loss of Support Networks: Without strong social connections, neurodivergent women may lack the emotional support necessary to cope with life’s challenges, further deepening their sense of isolation.

The Impact of Masking and Emotional Burnout

To avoid exclusion and navigate social complexities, many neurodivergent women resort to masking—altering their natural behaviors to align with societal norms. While masking can temporarily mitigate social friction, it exacts a heavy toll:

• Emotional Strain: Constantly monitoring and suppressing one’s authentic responses to fit in creates ongoing stress.
• Burnout: The effort required to maintain a facade is exhausting, often leading to physical and emotional burnout. This burnout manifests as fatigue, irritability, and an overwhelming sense of disconnection from one’s true self.
• Loss of Identity: Over time, masking can erode self-esteem and identity, as neurodivergent women feel compelled to prioritize social acceptance over personal authenticity.

Actionable Strategies

1. Educate on Subtle Forms of Aggression

Promoting awareness of relational aggression and its impact is key to fostering inclusive environments:

• Workshops and Training: Host sessions in schools, workplaces, and community settings to help individuals recognize covert forms of bullying and understand their emotional impact.
• Encourage Empathy: Teach others, particularly neurotypical individuals, to be more empathetic and mindful of how subtle behaviors can alienate or harm neurodivergent individuals.

2. Create Inclusive Spaces

Building spaces that prioritize connection over conformity can help reduce the impact of social isolation:

• Safe Zones: Establish inclusive social spaces where women are encouraged to interact authentically without the pressure of adhering to traditional social norms.
• Facilitated Activities: Design group activities that emphasize collaboration and shared interests, allowing neurodivergent women to connect in environments that value their strengths.

3. Advocate for Emotional Well-Being Programs

Supporting the emotional health of neurodivergent women requires targeted interventions:

• Therapeutic Support: Provide access to therapy or counseling focused on building resilience and addressing the effects of relational aggression.
• Mentorship Programs: Pair neurodivergent women with mentors who can guide them through social challenges and offer strategies for coping with relational aggression.
• Social Skills Training: While neurodivergent women should not be expected to conform, training programs that focus on navigating complex social environments can empower them to assert themselves without compromising authenticity.

By addressing the hidden challenges of relational aggression and exclusion, we can work toward a world where neurodivergent women feel safe, valued, and understood. The shift from conformity to connection not only benefits them but fosters a more compassionate and inclusive society for all.

Internalized Shame and Social Isolation: A Deeper Psychological Impact

The Burden of Misunderstanding

Neurodivergent women often grow up feeling out of sync with societal expectations, leading to a deep and persistent sense of being “different” or “not enough.” Society’s lack of understanding about neurodivergence frequently translates into:

• Unrealistic Expectations: Constant pressure to conform to neurotypical standards in communication, behavior, and emotional expression.
• Negative Reinforcement: Subtle or overt criticism for their natural ways of thinking and interacting.

This external criticism is frequently internalized as shame, with neurodivergent women blaming themselves for their perceived inability to “fit in.” Over time, this shame manifests as:

• Self-Doubt: A persistent belief that their thoughts and behaviors are inherently flawed.
• Perfectionism: A coping mechanism where they strive for unattainable standards to compensate for feelings of inadequacy.
• Anxiety and Depression: Chronic stress and fear of rejection contribute to heightened anxiety and depressive symptoms.

This internalized shame not only erodes self-esteem but also creates barriers to seeking support or expressing one’s authentic self.

The Hidden Crisis: Neurodivergence and Mental Health

The emotional toll of internalized shame is compounded by the long-term consequences of social exclusion. Neurodivergent women often face a silent mental health crisis, characterized by:

• Isolation: Exclusion from social circles and meaningful relationships leads to loneliness, further reinforcing feelings of inadequacy.
• Chronic Depression: The persistent emotional strain from societal rejection and self-criticism often culminates in clinical depression.
• Low Self-Esteem: Years of masking and suppressing their true selves erode their sense of identity and worth.

Despite these struggles, mental health issues among neurodivergent women are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. Their ability to “mask” distress can make it difficult for others to recognize their struggles, leaving them without adequate support.

Actionable Strategies

1. Foster Environments of Self-Compassion and Acceptance

Creating spaces where neurodivergent women feel valued and understood can alleviate the burden of internalized shame:

• Promote Self-Acceptance: Encourage neurodivergent women to embrace their unique traits by celebrating neurodiversity as a strength rather than a limitation.
• Educate Allies: Provide education to caregivers, educators, and peers about the importance of affirming neurodivergent identities and reducing stigma.
• Challenge Stigmatizing Norms: Actively work to dismantle societal beliefs that label neurodivergence as a deficit or a problem to be fixed.

2. Build Tailored Mental Health Support Systems

Mental health interventions must address the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent women:

• Therapy: Encourage access to therapists who specialize in neurodivergence and understand its intersection with mental health. Therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be adapted to help reframe internalized shame and foster resilience.
• Peer Support Groups: Create opportunities for neurodivergent women to connect and share experiences, reducing feelings of isolation and building a sense of community.
• Accessible Resources: Advocate for affordable and inclusive mental health care, particularly for underserved populations.

3. Establish Safe Spaces for Vulnerability and Authenticity

Providing environments where neurodivergent women can express themselves without judgment is vital:

• Support Circles: Organize regular gatherings or forums where neurodivergent women can discuss their experiences openly.
• Workplace Initiatives: Develop workplace programs that encourage authenticity and provide accommodations for mental health needs.
• Creative Outlets: Encourage artistic or expressive activities that allow neurodivergent women to process emotions and communicate in non-traditional ways.

By addressing the root causes of internalized shame and social isolation, society can empower neurodivergent women to break free from cycles of self-doubt and emotional exhaustion. This shift is not only transformative for individuals but also a crucial step toward building a world that values diversity, fosters inclusion, and nurtures mental well-being.

The Gendered Diagnosis Gap: Misunderstanding Autism in Women

Underdiagnosis in Women

The diagnosis of autism has long been shaped by gender biases, resulting in a significant gap in the recognition and support of autistic women. Historically, diagnostic criteria have been based on studies primarily involving males, leading to:

• Gender Biases: Women and girls with autism often display subtler symptoms, such as advanced masking abilities or high verbal skills, which are frequently overlooked.
• Missed Diagnoses: Studies indicate that autism in girls is underdiagnosed by a ratio of at least 3:1 compared to boys, leaving many women to navigate life undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with conditions like anxiety or borderline personality disorder.
• Long-Term Impact: Without early diagnosis and intervention, autistic women may face years of misunderstanding, emotional distress, and a lack of accommodations in education and the workplace.

Example: A girl who is highly verbal and excels academically may struggle socially and emotionally but be dismissed as “just shy” or “overly sensitive.” This dismissal can lead to untreated challenges that compound over time.

Autistic Masking and Gender Norms

One significant barrier to diagnosis in women is the phenomenon of masking. Women and girls on the autism spectrum often feel societal pressure to conform to gendered expectations, leading them to suppress or camouflage neurodivergent traits.

• Impact of Masking on Diagnosis:
  • Women may mimic neurotypical behaviors, such as maintaining eye contact or engaging in small talk, to fit in.
  • This masking can make it harder for professionals to identify autistic traits, delaying or preventing diagnosis.
• Role of Gender Norms:
  • Social norms often dictate that women should excel in empathy, relationships, and communication, creating unrealistic pressures for neurodivergent women to “perform” neurotypical behaviors.
  • These expectations further obscure autism traits and reinforce the underdiagnosis cycle.

The result is a diagnostic process that fails to recognize the full spectrum of autism, especially in women who fall outside stereotypical presentations.

Actionable Strategies

1. Advocate for Early and Accurate Diagnoses

Addressing the diagnostic gap begins with expanding awareness and adapting diagnostic practices:

• Expand Diagnostic Criteria: Update assessment tools to account for the gendered nuances of autism, such as a focus on emotional masking or intense, socially acceptable interests.
• Encourage Parental and Educator Awareness: Train caregivers and educators to recognize early signs of autism in girls, including subtler behaviors like extreme perfectionism or social withdrawal.

2. Train Medical Professionals

Equipping clinicians with the tools to recognize autism in women is essential for improving diagnostic rates:

• Specialized Training Programs: Develop workshops and certifications for healthcare professionals focused on understanding gender-specific autism traits.
• Collaborative Diagnoses: Encourage multi-disciplinary diagnostic teams, including input from psychologists, speech therapists, and educators, to create a holistic view of the individual’s challenges.

3. Support Gender-Specific Research and Interventions

Research is critical to closing the gendered diagnosis gap:

• Fund Studies on Female Autism: Invest in research exploring how autism manifests in women, from emotional regulation to social masking.
• Develop Tailored Interventions: Design support systems specifically for women, such as therapy models that address the mental health impacts of masking or social isolation.

By addressing the gendered diagnosis gap, we can ensure that autistic women receive the recognition, support, and accommodations they deserve. Early intervention and informed care can empower neurodivergent women to lead fulfilling lives, free from the misunderstanding and marginalization they so often face. Bridging this gap is not just a matter of equity; it is a step toward creating a society that values and supports the full diversity of human experiences.

Fostering Support, Advocacy, and Inclusion: Practical Solutions

The Role of Advocacy and Support

Advocacy and support are crucial in dismantling systemic barriers and creating environments where neurodivergent women can thrive. These efforts should include:

• Supportive Communities: Building spaces—both physical and virtual—where neurodivergent women can share their experiences and access resources.
• Mentorship: Encouraging neurodivergent women to mentor others fosters empowerment and provides relatable guidance for navigating challenges.
• Resource Accessibility: Ensuring that tools like counseling, social skills workshops, and informational guides are widely available and easy to access.

Empowering neurodivergent women to advocate for their own needs strengthens their autonomy and confidence, enabling them to shape systems that better accommodate their unique traits.

Empowering Neurodivergent Women Through Self-Advocacy

Self-advocacy is a vital skill for neurodivergent women to assert their needs and boundaries in various aspects of life:

• In Education: Neurodivergent women should feel confident asking for accommodations, such as extra time for assignments or alternative ways to demonstrate their learning.
• In Workplaces: Strategies like communicating preferences for structured tasks or requesting flexible schedules can help create a more supportive work environment.
• In Social Settings: Identifying allies and clearly expressing personal boundaries can help neurodivergent women navigate relationships without emotional strain.

Building self-advocacy skills requires:

• Education: Workshops on effective communication and understanding rights under laws like the Disability Act in India or ADA internationally.
• Support Groups: Peer-led discussions that offer encouragement, practical advice, and emotional solidarity.
• Therapeutic Interventions: Counseling to strengthen self-esteem and develop assertive communication.

Workplace and Educational Accommodations

Inclusive practices in schools and workplaces can greatly reduce the challenges neurodivergent women face:

• In Education:
  • Flexible Communication: Allowing for written communication or other nonverbal methods.
  • Structured Learning: Clear expectations, organized tasks, and visual aids can help neurodivergent students thrive.
  • Sensory-Friendly Spaces: Quiet rooms or sensory-friendly zones to support emotional regulation.
• In Workplaces:
  • Flexible Schedules: Providing alternatives to traditional 9-to-5 routines.
  • Clear Communication Protocols: Explicit guidelines for tasks and expectations, minimizing ambiguity.
  • Inclusive Policies: Initiatives to educate employees about neurodiversity and ensure managers are trained to support neurodivergent staff effectively.

By embracing these accommodations, organizations can unlock the immense potential and diverse perspectives neurodivergent women bring.

Actionable Strategies

1. Implement Mentorship Programs and Peer Support Networks

• Establish programs where experienced neurodivergent individuals mentor others to navigate personal and professional challenges.
• Facilitate peer support groups focused on sharing strategies, emotional resilience, and celebrating neurodivergence.

2. Advocate for Inclusive Workplace Policies

• Collaborate with HR departments to develop neurodivergent-friendly policies, including flexible schedules, tailored onboarding programs, and neurodiversity-focused workshops.
• Promote leadership opportunities for neurodivergent women to ensure their voices are heard at all levels.

3. Create Educational Resources for Schools and Employers

• Develop training modules for educators and employers to understand neurodivergent experiences and create effective accommodations.
• Distribute guides and toolkits on recognizing and supporting the needs of neurodivergent women.

Supporting neurodivergent women is not merely about accommodations—it is about fostering a culture of inclusion, empathy, and understanding. By empowering women to advocate for themselves and by creating environments that embrace diversity, we can move toward a world where neurodivergent individuals feel valued and supported. When these solutions are implemented, society benefits as a whole, gaining insight from the unique strengths and perspectives of neurodivergent women.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Neurodivergent Women

Vision for the Future

The journey toward a more inclusive society begins with seeing neurodivergent women as integral contributors to our communities. A future where neurodivergent women are not just accommodated but celebrated requires systemic and cultural shifts:

• Breaking Barriers: Societies must move beyond token inclusivity, recognizing and valuing the unique talents and perspectives neurodivergent women bring to education, workplaces, and social spheres.
• Embracing Neurodiversity: Integrating neurodiversity into the mainstream—be it through art, literature, policymaking, or corporate leadership—ensures that no one feels marginalized for thinking or being different.
• Collaborative Change: This vision is achievable through partnerships among individuals, institutions, policymakers, and grassroots organizations. Whether it’s reforming medical diagnostic practices, creating inclusive curriculums, or ensuring workplace equity, every stakeholder has a role to play.

A Call to Action

Positive change doesn’t happen in isolation. It requires collective effort:

1. For Individuals:
   • Foster empathy in everyday interactions with neurodivergent individuals.
   • Educate yourself and others about neurodiversity to dismantle stereotypes.
2. For Schools:
   • Build classrooms that are safe, flexible, and accommodating for neurodivergent students.
   • Train educators to recognize and support neurodivergence in young women.
3. For Workplaces:
   • Commit to hiring practices that value diversity of thought and experience.
   • Implement training programs to raise awareness about neurodivergence among employees.
4. For Policymakers:
   • Prioritize funding for neurodivergent research, particularly focused on women.
   • Reform disability and mental health policies to ensure equitable access to support systems.

Participate and Donate to MEDA Foundation

Creating a world where neurodivergent individuals thrive is not a distant dream—it is a shared responsibility. At MEDA Foundation, we dedicate ourselves to building inclusive, supportive ecosystems that empower neurodivergent individuals, especially women, to lead fulfilling lives.

• Your Role: Support our mission by spreading awareness, volunteering, or donating.
• Impact: Your contributions help fund vital programs, such as employment support, therapy sessions, and community-building initiatives, that directly benefit neurodivergent individuals and their families.

Closing Thoughts

A society that embraces neurodiversity is richer, kinder, and more resilient. By valuing the unique experiences of neurodivergent women, we not only uplift individuals but strengthen the fabric of our communities. Every effort counts—from a single act of kindness to systemic reform. Together, we can create a world where no one feels invisible, unheard, or undervalued.

Let’s work toward a future of inclusion, understanding, and shared humanity. Be the change.

Book References

1. “NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity” by Steve Silberman
   • A comprehensive look at the history of autism and the importance of embracing neurodiversity in our society.
2. “Divergent Mind: Thriving in a World That Wasn’t Designed for You” by Jenara Nerenberg
   • A groundbreaking book that focuses on neurodivergent women and the challenges they face in navigating neurotypical environments.
3. “Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism” by Temple Grandin
   • Temple Grandin’s memoir provides a unique and deeply personal perspective on living with autism.
4. “The Autistic Brain: Helping Different Kinds of Minds Succeed” by Temple Grandin and Richard Panek
   • This book explores how understanding the autistic brain can lead to better support and inclusion for neurodivergent individuals.
5. “Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity” by Dr. Devon Price
   • A powerful exploration of autistic masking and how neurodivergent individuals can reclaim their authenticity.