Person-First vs. Identity-First Language in the Autism Community. In recent years, the autism community has had ongoing conversations about how to refer to autistic people. A key part of this debate centres on two types of language: person-first and identity-first. Both approaches have their advocates and critics, and each offers a different way of thinking about autism. However, when we talk about autistic people, it is crucial to be respectful, use inclusive language, and celebrate neurodiversity. This blog will explain the differences between person-first and identity-first language, and why an identity-first approach can help recognise and celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives of autistic people.
Understanding Person-First Language
Person-first language is a way of speaking that puts the person before their condition or disability. For example, instead of saying “autistic person,” you would say “person with autism.” The idea is that this approach highlights someone’s humanity rather than focusing on their diagnosis. It was developed to encourage people to see others as individuals first and foremost, and not to define them by their condition.
Supporters of person-first language argue that it helps prevent people from being “labelled” by their disability, which could lead to stereotypes or negative assumptions. By focusing on the person first, this language style aims to reduce stigma and ensure that people aren’t defined solely by a medical condition. For example, advocates of person-first language might say, “John is a person with autism, but he also loves football and is great at music.”
The Power of Identity-First Language
Identity-first language, in contrast, places the condition before the person, such as saying “autistic person” instead of “person with autism.” The key idea behind this is that autism is an important part of who someone is. Rather than being a separate aspect of a person’s life, it shapes how they view the world and interact with it. This approach encourages people to see autism as a positive part of someone’s identity, rather than something to be separated from the person.
Many autistic individuals and their families prefer identity-first language because it embraces autism as part of a person’s identity. Autism is not an illness or something that needs fixing. Instead, it is a form of neurodiversity that should be acknowledged and celebrated.
For example, an autistic person may feel that their brain works in a different way, allowing them to notice details or approach problems with unique solutions. For them, autism is part of who they are and not something that should be avoided or hidden. When we use identity-first language, we help to normalise and celebrate this fact.
Celebrating Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is the idea that variations in brain functioning are a natural part of human diversity. Just as people have different skin colours, cultural backgrounds, and talents, they also have different ways of thinking and processing information. Autism is one of many examples of neurodiversity.
By using identity-first language, we help celebrate the strengths and talents that come from being autistic. It allows society to appreciate the value that autistic individuals bring to their communities. For example, many autistic individuals have unique talents in fields like science, technology, music, and the arts. Embracing identity-first language shows that we recognise these strengths and value the diverse perspectives that autistic people offer.
When we adopt an identity-first approach, we move away from seeing autism as a “disorder” and start recognising it as a different way of being. Rather than thinking about how to change autistic people to fit into society, we should focus on how society can adapt to support and celebrate the diverse abilities that autistic people possess.
Respecting Individual Preferences
It is essential to remember that not everyone on the autism spectrum feels the same way about language. Some may prefer person-first language, while others identify more with identity-first language. Respecting individual preferences is key to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
For instance, if someone tells you they prefer to be called an “autistic person” rather than a “person with autism,” it is respectful to honour that choice. Similarly, others may prefer person-first language because it helps them feel seen beyond their diagnosis. Either way, respecting each individual’s preferences allows for a more accepting and inclusive community.
Inclusive Language in British English
When talking about autism in the UK, it’s important to use language that is both respectful and inclusive. The terms we use should acknowledge the wide variety of experiences and perspectives within the autistic community. For instance, phrases such as “autistic individuals,” “people on the autism spectrum,” or “neurodivergent individuals” ensure that we are not making assumptions about anyone’s identity.
By using such inclusive language, we open the door to a broader understanding of what it means to be autistic. It allows people to feel seen and valued for their unique traits. In British culture, where politeness and respect are highly valued, using the correct language plays a crucial role in making sure everyone feels comfortable and accepted.
Why Identity-First Language Matters in Celebrating Autistic Individuals
One of the reasons identity-first language is so important is that it helps celebrate autistic people for who they are. When we embrace autism as part of someone’s identity, we can begin to see the beauty in their unique way of seeing the world. Just as we celebrate diversity in race, gender, and culture, we should also celebrate neurodiversity.
For autistic individuals, identity-first language can help reduce the stigma often attached to autism. It reframes the conversation by showing that being autistic is not a flaw, but a difference that deserves respect and celebration. Rather than focusing on what autistic people can’t do, identity-first language helps highlight their strengths and contributions.
A World That Celebrates Neurodiversity
The discussion between person-first and identity-first language is more than just a debate about words – it’s about how we view and respect autistic people. By using identity-first language, we can help celebrate the individuality and strengths of neurodivergent people, and in turn, build a more inclusive society.
However, it’s also important to respect personal preferences. Some autistic people may prefer person-first language, and that should be honoured. By being mindful of our language choices, we can create a world where every individual feels seen, accepted, and celebrated for who they are.
By embracing identity-first language, respecting personal choices, and promoting neurodiversity, we take meaningful steps towards creating a society that values every person, no matter how they experience the world.
This approach allows us to move away from seeing autism as a “deficit” and instead view it as an important and celebrated part of human diversity. As we build more inclusive spaces, we can ensure that every autistic person feels empowered to be their true self, knowing they are valued for exactly who they are.