Can ADHD masking look like perfectionism?

Yes. Clinically, perfectionism is one of the most common forms of ADHD masking. Over preparing, obsessing over details, double checking, and aiming for flawlessness are ways to prevent mistakes that might expose regulation difficulties. This often develops after repeated criticism or embarrassment. Perfectionism can make someone look high functioning while draining enormous energy. Over time, it increases anxiety, burnout, and avoidance. The key difference is motivation. When perfectionism is masking, it is driven by fear of being seen as unreliable, not by enjoyment of excellence. Treating the underlying ADHD often reduces the need for perfectionism.