Core Theory
Risk sources

Masking

Feeling unable to express your true self at work can cause emotional exhaustion and disengagement. Authenticity fosters job satisfaction and better workplace relationships.

Masking, within the JDBA Framework, indicates the degree to which individuals feel they cannot be genuine and true to themselves in their work environment. It measures one's inability to express their personality, emotions, and values without feeling the need to hide or alter their true self to fit in or meet workplace expectations.

An individual's level of Masking is not solely a personal choice; organizational culture plays a significant role. Workplaces that foster conformity, rigidity, and closed communication can greatly increase professionals' need for masking. Conversely, an accepting and diverse work culture may allow even the most guarded individuals to express their true selves.

A high score in Masking suggests that an individual frequently experiences:

  • Discomfort being themselves around colleagues
  • Struggle to express their personality at work
  • Feeling inauthentic in their interactions
  • Need to hide true feelings or opinions

A low score indicates that an individual feels comfortable expressing their true feelings at work, can be genuine in their emotions, and feels they can be who they are without needing to change to fit in.

The cumulative effect of high Masking can lead to increased disconnection, stress, and eventual burnout. The continuous effort to maintain a facade—contrary to one's true self—amplifies existing work-related strains, creating an emotional burden. Over time, the individual may become more detached from their work and colleagues, leading to decreased job satisfaction and emotional exhaustion.

Organizations can promote authenticity by cultivating a culture of inclusivity, encouraging open communication, and valuing diverse perspectives. Leaders can model authentic behavior and create safe spaces for employees to express themselves genuinely.

Understanding one's level of Masking can be a crucial step toward identifying misalignments between personal values and work expectations, seeking more suitable work environments, and enhancing overall well-being and job satisfaction. This concept affects professionals across various fields, especially in environments with strict cultural norms or high emotional labor demands.

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