This feeling of social discomfort was also expressed by actress Tara Fitzgerald, who is well-known for her roles in television and movies. "There are ways to temporarily mask these feelings, even though one may feel uncomfortable in social situations," she said.

Imagine entering a crowded room where everyone appears to know one another and the conversation flows naturally, but you are on the sidelines, unsure of how to participate. Fitzgerald was discussing the sensation of being an outsider despite being surrounded by people. She notes that formal gatherings can establish a buffer zone of sorts, allowing awkward people like herself to fit in without fully engaging.

Social norms and rules at formal events provide a means for socially anxious people to conceal their uneasiness behind protocol and etiquette, much like wearing a mask or applying makeup to conceal flaws. Finding a place where one can feel at ease within the framework of an event without having to worry about fitting in all the time is more important than being fake.

Many people who have trouble interacting with others but manage to get by by following the rules or just watching instead of actively participating can relate to Fitzgerald's words. Her viewpoint emphasizes that although formal settings may not address the root cause, they can undoubtedly facilitate management in the near term.

Fitzgerald's remark is essentially a commentary on how society offers situations in which awkwardness can be concealed, making people feel less alone even if they continue to be marginalized.