Preferences for identity-first versus person-first language in a US sample of autism stakeholders.

This study asked autistic adults and autism professionals in the US about their preferred language - saying 'autistic person' versus 'person with autism.' The results showed autistic adults strongly prefer 'autistic person' while professionals prefer 'person with autism.' This suggests professionals and autistic people have different views on respectful language. The researchers say it's important for professionals to talk openly about which terms to use.

This US survey study examined language preferences among autism stakeholders regarding identity-first (e.g., 'autistic person') versus person-first (e.g., 'person with autism') terminology. The study included 299 autistic adults and 207 professionals working in autism services. Results showed a clear divide: autistic adults overwhelmingly preferred identity-first language when referring to themselves and others with autism, while professionals were more likely to support and use person-first language. The findings align with similar surveys conducted in the UK and Australia, suggesting this preference pattern exists across different countries.

The authors emphasize that language is dynamic and highlight the importance of open communication between autism professionals about respectful terminology when communicating with and about autistic individuals and families.

Professionals should be aware that autistic adults prefer identity-first language, contrary to traditional person-first approaches. This suggests need for flexibility in language use based on individual and community preferences. Open dialogue between professionals and autistic individuals about language preferences is essential for respectful practice.

The abstract does not specify sampling methods, response rates, or demographic characteristics of participants. No information provided about statistical analyses or effect sizes. Limited detail on how preferences were measured or survey methodology.

There is currently disagreement among professionals (such as teachers, therapists, researchers, and clinicians) about the most appropriate and respectful way to refer to individuals with disabilities in general, and those with autism, in particular. Supporters offeel that it is important to emphasize therather than the disorder or disability, and promote the use of terms such as, "person with autism" or "a person with ASD." The goal is to reduce stereotypes and discrimination and emphasize the person's individuality rather than their disability. However, some people within the autism community have questioned the use of person-first terms because they are awkward and use an unconventional style of language that draws attention to the disability. Moreover, autistic individuals and their families are beginning to support the use ofthat embraces all aspects of one's identity.

Surveys in the United Kingdom and Australia support the idea that both types of language are preferred by different groups of autism stakeholder groups. In our study, we surveyed autism stakeholders in the United States. Overwhelmingly, autistic adults ( = 299) preferred identity-first language terms to refer to themselves or others with autism. Professionals who work in the autism community ( = 207) were more likely to support and use person-first language.

Language is dynamic and our findings support the need for open communication among autism professionals about how we communicate with and about autistic individuals and their families.