12 Questions
What is the term for the language that places the person before the identifier?
Person-first language
What did the American Psychological Association recommend in 2010?
The use of person-first language
What is the recommendation of the Autism Self Advocacy Network?
Using identity-first language exclusively
In how many countries have the preferences of the autism community been systematically examined?
Two English-speaking countries
What is the main reason for the change in recommendation by the American Psychological Association in 2020?
The preference of participants themselves
What is the main purpose of assessing terminology preferences in a non-English-speaking country?
To compare with English-speaking countries
What is a consequence of stigmatization of autistic persons?
Ascribing stereotypical traits to persons on the autism spectrum
According to the neurodiversity movement, what is autism viewed as?
A difference but not a deficit
What is a potential issue with using People-First Language (PFL)?
It may promote the idea of autism as a disability or something negative
Why may Identity-First Language (IFL) be an empowering alternative to PFL?
It views autism as a vital and inseparable part of one's identity
What is a common way that positive attributes are typically placed in the English language?
Before a noun (e.g. 'beautiful people')
What is a common view among autistic adults who prefer IFL?
Autism is a vital and inseparable part of their identity
Study Notes
Autism Terminology
- The terminology used to refer to persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has received increasing attention in recent years.
- Two types of language are used: Person-First Language (PFL) and Identity-First Language (IFL).
- PFL places the person before the identifier, for example, 'person with autism', while IFL places the identifier before the person, for example, 'autistic person'.
Historical Context
- The American Psychological Association (APA) recommended the use of PFL in 2010, citing that IFL "objectifies a person by her or his condition".
- However, in 2020, the APA changed its recommendation, advising the use of either PFL or IFL, depending on the context and individual preferences.
Guidelines and Preferences
- The Autism Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) and the journal Autism in Adulthood use IFL exclusively.
- The guidelines of the journal Autism include both PFL and IFL options.
- The preferences of the autism community, including autistic adults, parents, and professionals, have only been systematically examined in two English-speaking countries (the United Kingdom and Australia).
Stigmatization and Language
- The words used to describe autism and people with autism can reflect and shape the way people think about autism, potentially contributing to stigmatization.
- Stigmatization of autistic persons includes ascribing stereotypical traits, defining them by their autism, and perceiving them as less than individuals.
- PFL may promote the idea that people with autism are individuals, but it can also perpetuate the view of autism as a disability or something negative.
- IFL, on the other hand, may be an empowering alternative that acknowledges autism as a difference, but not a deficit.
Explore the terminology used to refer to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Learn about the difference between person-first language and identity-first language and how they are used in autism research.
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