Autism Spectrum Disorder: Person-First vs. Identity-First Language

What is the term for the language that places the person before the identifier?

What did the American Psychological Association recommend in 2010?

What is the recommendation of the Autism Self Advocacy Network?

In how many countries have the preferences of the autism community been systematically examined?

What is the main reason for the change in recommendation by the American Psychological Association in 2020?

What is the main purpose of assessing terminology preferences in a non-English-speaking country?

What is a consequence of stigmatization of autistic persons?

According to the neurodiversity movement, what is autism viewed as?

What is a potential issue with using People-First Language (PFL)?

Why may Identity-First Language (IFL) be an empowering alternative to PFL?

What is a common way that positive attributes are typically placed in the English language?

What is a common view among autistic adults who prefer IFL?

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.