Recent discussions about the most appropriate language to use when referring to individuals on the autism spectrum have stirred deep debate within the autistic community and on social media. It’s important to acknowledge that individuals in regions where autism is stigmatized or seen as taboo are often left out of these conversations, highlighting the need for greater inclusion and understanding.
Usually, these studies are conducted in two stages. At first, many individuals may not have firm opinions on the terminology. However, terms that place emphasis on the person, like “person with autism,” are frequently mentioned. Later, when these findings are reported in the media, another study is often carried out to understand how individuals with autism choose to identify themselves.
Research has shown that there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the terms people prefer, as individual and group preferences vary widely. Contrary to common belief, most studies indicate that the choice of words is not significantly influenced by factors such as identity, awareness, acceptance, or confidence.
Additionally, it’s important to acknowledge that these studies often do not fully represent the diversity of the autism community. The participants are usually recruited online, which can make it challenging to form comprehensive conclusions. Autistic individuals, their parents, caregivers, and professionals often have more pressing concerns than engaging in debates about the most suitable terminology to use.
I find it more interesting to explore why some autistic people find certain terms offensive and how different factors at various levels (individual, community, and societal) influence this. The offensive nature of terms can be due to many subconscious influences and factors, as researchers say.
Autism literature talks about many factors like personal identity development, life stages, timing of formal diagnoses, community norms, cultural and social contexts, the influence of social security, historical impacts of religion, linguistic nuances, social pressures, and personal preferences.
Some researchers believe that terms originally meant for medical settings become negative and reductive when used socially, especially under a social model of autism.
Others suggest that the negative feeling comes from a history of marginalization and discrimination. These feelings shape how terms are perceived, even if they are not meant to be negative. Understanding these dynamics is crucial when discussing autism-related terminology.
For example, I’ve personally experienced situations where terms like “high-functioning” or “low-functioning” can feel limiting or misleading. These labels often ignore the complexities of an individual’s abilities and needs, reducing them to a simple categorization that doesn’t reflect their true experience.
Using respectful language is important not just for clarity, but for fostering an inclusive environment. Terms like “autistic person” or “person with autism” are more than just words—they represent an effort to respect individual preferences and promote understanding. For instance, referring to someone as an “autistic person” can affirm their identity, while “person with autism” can emphasize the person first, which some prefer.
In practical terms, using respectful language can make a big difference. In educational settings, it can help teachers and students communicate more effectively. In workplaces, it fosters a more inclusive environment, encouraging better teamwork and collaboration. For families, it can enhance understanding and support within the home.
To illustrate, consider the story of Jane, a young woman on the autism spectrum who shared her preference for the term “autistic.” She felt that it acknowledged her identity and experiences more authentically. On the other hand, Mark, another individual on the spectrum, preferred “person with autism” because it highlighted his individuality beyond his diagnosis.
By including personal experiences and understanding the impact of respectful language, we can move beyond surface-level debates to more meaningful discussions. This approach encourages us to listen, learn, and adapt our language to better support and respect the diverse autism community.
The European Autist 