Using Inclusive Language When Talking About Autism

Last Updated on August 16, 2025 by John Hookway

The words you use can change how people see autistic people. Language does more than describe things. It shapes how society thinks about autistic individuals.

It also affects how they feel about themselves. Studies show that ableist words can hurt how people act and even change rules.

Using inclusive language helps people accept others and lowers stigma. Think about the words you use. You can help everyone feel respected.

Key Takeaways

• The words you choose can change how people think about autism. They also affect how autistic people feel about themselves.
• Use kind and inclusive words like ‘autistic person’ or ‘on the autism spectrum.’ These words show you accept them and help stop negative ideas.
• Do not use old or mean words like ‘high-functioning’ or ‘suffers from autism.’ These words can hurt and leave people out. Always ask autistic people what words they like.
• Respect their choices to build trust and show you care. Use clear and simple words. Support different ways people talk. This helps autistic people feel safe and included.

Why Language Matters

Shaping Perceptions

The words you use change how people see autism. Words help people make ideas about autism. Some words, like “neurodiversity” and “spectrum,” show autism is normal.

These words help people feel welcome. Other words, like “closed-off kid” or “high/low function,” can make people feel left out. Research shows words do more than talk about things.

They change how people think and act. Using kind words helps stop stigma. It also helps people feel good about themselves.

Autistic self-advocates say words matter in their lives. Many like identity-first language, like “autistic person.” This shows pride and belonging. Using words they like helps them feel seen. If you use words they do not like, they may feel left out or sad.

Media is important too. News and TV can teach or spread stereotypes. Bad words in media make autism seem like a problem. Good stories and true words help people learn and accept autistic people.

Impact on Inclusion

The words you pick can help or hurt people. In schools and jobs, using kind words helps autistic people feel welcome. Respecting word choices shows you care.

This helps autistic people feel important and included. Programs that listen to autistic people and use their words work better.

Ask autistic people what words they want. Listen and use those words to show you care.

Using kind words is not the only thing to do, but it matters. It helps people go from knowing about autism to accepting autistic people. When you use good words, you help make a world where everyone belongs.

Evolution of Autism Language

Outdated Terms

People have changed the words they use for autism over time. Some old words are now seen as hurtful or wrong. These words often came from doctors or early studies.

They did not show how autistic people feel about themselves. Here is a table with some old words and when people stopped using them:

Words like “high-functioning” or “low-functioning” do not show what autistic people need or can do. These labels can make people feel bad or left out.

They do not help you know what support someone needs. Experts and autistic people say these labels are not good. They can even stop autistic people from getting chances.

Functioning labels were never part of official diagnoses. They make things too simple and can be confusing.

Respectful Alternatives

Today, people use kinder words that match what autistic people want. Many autistic adults like identity-first language, such as “autistic person.” This means autism is part of who they are.

Some people use person-first language, like “person with autism,” but many think it makes autism sound like a problem.

You can also say “on the autism spectrum” or “autistic individual.” These words show respect and acceptance.

The neurodiversity movement says autism is a natural difference, not something to fix. Groups led by autistic people use these words and do not use words that make autism sound bad.

• Use “autistic person” or “on the autism spectrum.”
• Do not use “suffers from autism” or “impacted by autism.”
• Ask each person what words they like.

Inclusive language puts autistic people first and helps everyone feel respected. When you use these words, you show you care about each person’s identity and story.

Inclusive Language in Autism

Inclusive Language Examples

The words you use when talking about autism are important. Using inclusive language helps people feel respected and valued. Try not to use words that sound negative or too medical. Choose words that show you accept and understand others.

Many neurodiversity advocates say to use identity-first language, like “autistic person.” This shows autism is part of who someone is.

Some people like person-first language, such as “person with autism.” But many autistic people think this separates them from their identity.

Here is a table that shows which phrases to avoid and what to use instead:

Inclusive language does not use labels that make autism sound bad. It uses words that talk about strengths and differences.

For example, say “focused interests” instead of “special interests.” You can also say “non-speaking” instead of “non-verbal.” These changes help show respect and understanding.

Always ask autistic people what words they like. Respecting their choice is a big part of using inclusive language.

Communication Tips

You can use inclusive language every day by following some easy tips. These tips help you connect with autistic people and show respect for what they need.

• Use clear and simple words. Do not use idioms, sarcasm, or slang because these can be confusing.
• Respect each person’s language choice. Some like identity-first language, others like person-first. Ask and use what they prefer.
• Give extra time for thinking and answering. Do not rush or interrupt.
• Use pictures, notes, or diagrams to help explain things.
• Make spaces sensory-friendly. Lower loud sounds, bright lights, and other distractions.
• Listen carefully and show you care about their feelings. Ask questions if you do not understand.
• Respect personal space and boundaries.
• Support different ways to communicate, like writing, using technology, or drawing.
• Help people make friends. Teach others about autism to build kindness and acceptance.
• Use honest and simple words. Do not talk down to anyone.
• Build routines and use shared interests to make talking easier.

Remember, every autistic person is different. Do not think one way works for everyone. Watch for body language and gestures. Use visual aids and keep routines the same. These steps help autistic people feel safe and included.

Schools and workplaces use inclusive language to help autistic people. Teachers and staff learn to use respectful words and make everyone feel welcome. Workplaces give neurodiversity training and teach people to talk clearly. These actions help lower stigma and help people accept each other.

If you want to learn more, there are many resources. You can find guides, books, and toolkits that explain inclusive language and give tips for better communication.

Person-First and Identity-First

Understanding Preferences

When talking about autism, people use two main ways. Person-first language puts the person before autism, like “person with autism.” Identity-first language puts autism first, like “autistic person.”

Many autistic adults like identity-first language more. Studies show almost half of autistic people pick identity-first language. Person-first language is not as popular.

Some people think person-first language separates autism from who they are. Others believe it helps lower stigma and puts the person first.

Your word choice depends on many things. People who join the autism community or get diagnosed later often like identity-first language. The language you speak matters too.

For example, Dutch speakers use person-first language more than English speakers. Parents and professionals usually pick person-first language. Autistic adults often think it is less respectful.

Culture, age at diagnosis, and personal experiences shape these choices. No single term works for everyone, so always ask what someone likes.

Respect each person’s choice. Using their favorite words shows you care and helps build trust.

Navigating Choices

You might wonder what to do if you do not know someone’s language choice. Experts say you should ask instead of guessing.

Using the wrong words can make talking harder and cause confusion. Autistic people sometimes find it hard to match words and meaning. Using their favorite words helps them feel safe and understood.

Big autism groups, like the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, suggest identity-first language. It shows autism is part of a person’s identity.

But person-first language is common in medical places and with professionals. The table below shows how groups and advocates compare these two styles:

You should use kind words and respect each person’s choice. If you do not know what someone likes, ask them. This helps everyone feel respected and valued.

Inclusive language changes how you think about autistic people. The words you use can help others feel respected. When you choose words that honor autistic identity, you show acceptance.

Studies say listening to autistic people helps everyone feel included. Using their favorite words gives them more power.

Keep learning new things and change your words as you learn more.
You make the world friendlier by talking in a way that puts people first and by helping autistic people speak up for themselves.

FAQ

What does inclusive language mean in autism conversations?

Inclusive language means using words that respect autistic people. You do not use words that are mean or negative. You pick words that show you accept and understand them. This helps everyone feel important and included.

What words should you avoid when talking about autism?

Do not use words like “suffers from autism,” “high-functioning,” or “special needs.”

Try saying “autistic person” or “on the autism spectrum” instead.

What is the difference between person-first and identity-first language?

Person-first language puts the person before autism, like “person with autism.” Identity-first language puts autism first, like “autistic person.”

What can you do if you are unsure which language someone prefers?

You can ask the person what words they like. Using their choice shows you care about their feelings.

Asking helps you build trust and makes talking easier.

What resources can help you learn more about inclusive language?

You can look for guides, books, and toolkits online. Many autism groups give free information to help you learn.

• Autistic Self Advocacy Network
• Autism Speaks
• National Autism Association