Words can be tricky! They mean different things to different people. What is considered ok or not ok to say can change over time. It can feel tough to stay in the loop and up to date. However, language changes reflect human learning and growth. That’s a great thing! So let’s do this together. Let’s talk about identity first vs. person first language as they each relate to autism. I will be offering my perspective as an Autistic* person who surrounds herself with other Autistic voices.
What is Identity First and Person First Language?
In the case of autism, “autism” is the identity. It’s a matter of what is referred to first, and what is being emphasized: the identity (autism) or the individual person.
If I talk about myself and say “I am Autistic,” that’s identity first language. I’m highlighting autism as part of my identity.
If instead I say, “I have autism,” I’m removing autism as part of my identity. In this example, autism becomes something I have, which also implies it’s something that I can have removed. That would be person first language.
If my friends were telling you about me using identity first language, they might say, “I know an Autistic person! Gabrielle is Autistic.” If they were using person first language they would say, “I know a person with autism. Gabrielle has autism.”
Should I say “Autistic Person” or “Person with Autism”?
In the past, lots of people thought person-first language was more respectful. The intent behind person-first language was good. The thinking was that it kept the focus on the individual rather than a label. “See the able, not the label,” as the saying goes. The intent was to reduce stigma.
More recently, the Autistic community has been vocal about our general preference for identity first language. Research indicates that 87% of Autistic adults prefer identity-first language. (Smith & Fitzgibbons, 2023). Some people still prefer person first language and that’s ok! We all have our own experiences and preferences. When talking to or about a specific person, it’s always a good idea to ask them what language they prefer.
So why are many Autistic people saying “Please call me an Autistic person! I prefer identity first language!” There are a few main reasons:
Autism is a neurotype. This means it impacts our brains and therefore all parts of our lives. Autism cannot be separated from any part of how we experience the world. That means it is central to our identities as Autistic people. It is with us from birth and we are never without it. Follow the link for more information about neurotypes, and how GoManda can help different neurotypes thrive.
People usually use person first language for things they think are taboo or harmful such as disease. “He has cancer. I have a (insert taboo or shameful) problem.” We don’t use person first language for things that are neutral or positive.
I say “I’m an American. I’m a mom. I’m a writer. I’m Autistic.” All these things are important parts of my identity, influencing how I show up in the world. Saying “I have autism” doesn’t make sense to me because I wouldn’t say “I have motherhood.” And I don’t say I’m a “person with autism” any more than I would say I’m a “person with writerhood.” Creating special language to use about just one part of my identity implies there is something weird or wrong with that specific part of me. And there’s not!
We are proud to be Autistic! Many strengths come with being Autistic and we are part of an important and valuable community together. Having healthy pride about this part of our identity ultimately reduces stigma much more than trying to minimize it.
Want more information from a great source? Explore a discussion between GoManda's founder, Dr. Celest Austin, and CASE (Council of Administrators of Special Education) director, Phyllis Wolfram on why we say "Autistic Person" or "Person with Autism"!
Disability is Not a Bad Word
Autism is a disability. Disability is not a bad word! Disability is a natural part of human diversity. I identify as Autistic and Disabled. (I capitalize Disability for the same reason I capitalize Autistic).
The Disabled community overlaps and intersects with the Autistic community, both because autism is a disability and because many people (like me!) have more than one disability. The Disabled community advocates for identity first language, just like the Autistic community and we do so for similar reasons. Again, it’s always the right move to respect individual preferences.
We are not a monolith! But in general, identity-first language is a great way to show respect and reduce stigma regardless of the disability in question. For example, that’s why in addition to saying, “I’m Autistic” you’ll hear me say “I’m Hard-of-Hearing” rather than say “I have a hearing loss.”
GoManda on a Language Mission
GoManda’s mission is to uplift the Autistic community. That means listening to the preferences of the Autistic community, including using identity first language. We don’t believe their neurotype is something Autistic people need to minimize about themselves. In fact, we think Autistic people are so awesome that our app is tailored to their unique way of learning!
GoManda is a vocabulary learning app designed for students who learn differently. Whether you have Neurodivergent students in your school or at home, GoManda is made for them. Currently available on IOS, with Android coming soon! Learn more about who we are and what we have to offer you and the learners in your life.
Did you know you can download a 7-day free trial of the GoManda App? Join us in our mission today and try GoManda for FREE.
*As an Autistic and Disabled person, I choose to capitalize these words when using them in the context of identity. With any marginalized identity group, that capitalization is often noted as a sign of recognition and respect.
References:
Smith, M., Horton, R. & Fitzgibbons, M. (2023). Preferences for person-first and identity-first language in autistic communities. Journal of Critical Study of Communication and Disability, 1(2), 106-140. http://doi.org/10.48516/jcscd_2023vol1iss2.13
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