Abstract
The article analyzes the phenomenon of camouflage used by individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and its literary representation in Richard Powers’ novels The Overstory and Bewilderment. Camouflage is defined as a strategy of consciously or unconsciously conforming behavior, emotions, and communication to social norms in order to avoid stigmatization. Three dimensions of camouflage are distinguished: compensation (strategic coping with social difficulties), masking (concealment of autistic traits), and assimilation (complete adaptation to social norms at the expense of one’s own identity). Although camouflage can improve social functioning, it is associated with negative effects, such as stress, depression, and loss of authenticity. In Powers’ novels, camouflage is a tool for criticizing the social norms of capitalist culture. Characters like Neelay Mehta, Patricia Westerford, or Robin represent different strategies of adaptation. The author depicts their struggles and highlights the inadequacy of social systems to meet the needs of people with ASD. These novels illustrate the potential of literature to foster empathy and reflection on the climate crisis, social inequalities, and the relationship between humans and nature. The findings can contribute to the development of more inclusive educational practices to support people on the autism spectrum.