The Identity Language of Autism

Have you ever stopped to consider how the words we use to describe people can shape our understanding and respect for them? In the autism community, there's an important ongoing discussion about the language used to describe autistic people: "identity-first language" versus "person-first language". Understanding the nuances of this discussion is key to respectful communication.

Understanding the Difference

So, what's the difference between "autistic person" and "person with autism"?

• Identity-First Language

  This approach places "autistic" before "person", as in "autistic person" or "autistic people".

• Person-First Language

  This approach places "person" before "autism", as in "person with autism".

So why do people have different preferences when it comes to these terms? Simply put, the choice of language reflects each person's deeply held beliefs about identity and disability.

The Identity-First Perspective

Why do many autistic people prefer to be called "autistic"? Autistic self-advocates often strongly prefer identity-first language because they see autism as an inherent and inseparable part of who they are. It's not something they "have" like an illness, but rather a fundamental aspect of their identity, much like someone might say "I am British" rather than "I am a person with Britishness". Identity-first language tells society that they should be respected along with their differences, not in spite of them. It's about celebrating neurodiversity - the idea that neurological differences are natural and valuable variations in human development. The advantages of identity-first language include:

• Affirmation of Identity

  It views autism as a core part of a person's identity and neurology, not a separate or negative add-on. It promotes equality and acceptance by recognising that autism shapes who a person is.

• Community Preference

  A study by the UK's National Autistic Society found that 61% of autistic people preferred the term 'autistic'. This indicates a strong preference within the community itself.

• Combating the Stigma of 'Having Autism'

  It avoids the implication that autism is a disease or something undesirable that a person "suffers from" or "is afflicted with".

The Person-First Perspective

Why do some people still prefer "person with autism"? Person-first language gained popularity in the broader disability community to emphasise the personhood of an individual before their diagnosis, aiming to combat dehumanisation and stigma. This approach is sometimes preferred by those who wish to highlight that the person is more than their condition, or by professionals who were historically taught this as the most respectful approach. The intention is often to focus on the individual's humanity first. The advantages of person-first language include:

• Emphasises Personhood

  It places focus on the individual's identity and personhood before their condition.

• Prevents Labelling

  For some, it helps to avoid a person being defined solely by their autism.

• Traditional Professional Use

  It has been the historically preferred term in many professional and medical contexts.

Why Autistic People Have Different Preferences

Do all autistic people feel strongly about one term over the other? No, actually, while there's a strong trend, not everyone shares the same view, and some have no particular preference.

• For Identity-First Adherents

  The preference often stems from deeply felt personal identity. They believe that if autism were removed, they would no longer be the same person. It's about embracing their neurology as an integral part of themselves.

• For Person-First Adherents

  The preference might be rooted in a desire to challenge the historical tendency to define people by their disability, especially when disabilities were viewed purely negatively. They want to ensure the person is always seen first.

• No Strong Preference

  For some autistic people, the specific terminology is less important than the underlying respect and understanding conveyed by the speaker. They might prioritise actions and genuine acceptance over linguistic debates, or simply not feel that either term impacts their personal identity significantly. Their focus might be more on accessible support and inclusion than on the words used to describe their neurological makeup.

Promoting Respectful Language Use

So, how can we navigate these preferences respectfully in our everyday interactions?

• Individual Preference is Key

  Does one size fit all when it comes to language? No, actually, the most important rule is to respect individual preferences. If you know how an autistic person prefers to be described, use that language.

• Default to Identity-First (when you're unsure)

  When you are unsure of someone's preference, defaulting to identity-first language ("autistic person") is generally considered acceptable and increasingly preferred within the autistic self-advocacy community.

• Avoid Outdated and Negative Terms

  Regardless of identity-first or person-first preference, certain terms should always be avoided. Have you heard people say "suffers from autism" or "is afflicted with autism"? These terms imply a negative and burdensome experience and are widely considered offensive. Similarly, phrases like "everyone is on the spectrum somewhere" or "everyone is a little autistic" are factually incorrect and dismissive of the lived experiences of autistic people.

Using respectful and appropriate language is a simple yet powerful way to demonstrate understanding, foster inclusion, and affirm the dignity of autistic people.

By staying informed, asking people which they prefer, and by being mindful of their preferences, we can contribute to a more accepting and compassionate society.