$MASKS

People often hide behind various “masks” to protect themselves or fit into different social contexts. Here are some common ways people do this:

• The Martyr or Victim Mask: This involves blaming external factors for personal problems to protect self-esteem1.

• The Bully Mask: Some people use aggression or bullying to keep others at a distance and mask their own insecurities1.

• The Humor Mask: Using humor to deflect attention from personal pain or sadness1.

• The Calm Mask: Maintaining a calm exterior while bottling up emotions, which can lead to emotional outbursts later.