Creating Adjustment Layer does not create layer mask.

[D R Smith]

I am trying to get a grasp on adjustment layers and layer masks.  I have been watching numerous tutuorials and one thing I've noticed is they all click on the adjustment layer they want to use, example: Exposure and up pops a settings box and on the right under the layers panel there is a box with a circle in it.  Fine so far.  In ALL the tutorials I have watched a blank white layer mask appears at the same time.  The instructors then go about painting or whatever using that layer mask.  When I do it, the white layer mask does not appear.   In order to get a layer mask I have to click on the Add Layer Mask at the bottom of the panel.  

Do I have something set wrong or...?  I've tried Googling it and YouTubing it but can't find an answer.  I'm using Photoshop CC 2019 with the latest update.  Thanks much in advance.

[Rob_Cullen]

Disclaimer- I am NOT a Ps expert!

Your adjustment layer looks strange! It shows an icon that is the icon used to 'create' an adjustment layer.

When I add an 'Exposure' adjustment layer I see this- The +/- icon:

So I presume you are at the 20.0.6 release of Ps (the "Latest").

My only suggestion is to reset the Preferences- Open Preferences and click the button on the General page-

[Chuck Uebele · Accepted solution]

You might have creating masks for adjustment layers turned off.

[D R Smith]

That did it. I didn't have that selected. Thank you very much!

[Rob_Cullen]

Thanks Chuck, I am learning also!

So, select the [Adjustments] tab, and click the 'four bars' icon for the menu.

Great.