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April is Autism Acceptance Month. This month, we’re releasing one new episode each week, in addition to our regularly scheduled episodes. These episodes are all about the language surrounding Autism. We had the privilege of interviewing several people for this Mini Series and we’re excited for you to listen in!
Meg Proctor, MS, OTR/L is the founder of Learn Play Thrive. She started Learn Play Thrive to help therapists who work on practical skills with neurodivergent kids to learn and apply the latest evidence-based, neurodiversity-affirming interventions to their work. She hosts the podcast, Two Sides of the Spectrum, where she explores research, amplifies autistic voices, and changes the way we think about autism in life and in professional therapy practice.
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In recent years, the language used to discuss autism has meaningfully transformed. The shift from "person with autism" to "autistic person" signifies a deeper recognition of autism as an integral part of identity rather than something to be distanced from the individual.
This change goes beyond semantics; it embodies a growing appreciation for neurodiversity and the authentic experiences of autistic individuals. By embracing this evolution in language, we take an essential step toward fostering acceptance and dismantling long-standing stigmas.
For decades, person-first language like "person with autism" was widely taught and used, aiming to emphasize the individual over the diagnosis. However, many autistic individuals and advocates now prefer identity-first language, such as "autistic person," which acknowledges autism as a fundamental part of their identity.
As occupational therapist Meg Proctor shared, identity-first language “positions autism not as a disorder, but as a natural part of who someone is.” This perspective aligns with the neurodiversity movement, which celebrates diverse ways of thinking and experiencing the world rather than viewing differences as deficits.
Meg Proctor, who runs theTwo Sides of the Spectrum podcast and a neurodiversity-affirming education platform, emphasizes the importance of listening to autistic voices. "I’ve yet to speak with an autistic person who prefers person-first language," she notes.
Surveys and anecdotal evidence from the autistic community consistently show a preference for identity-first language. This preference stems from the way person-first language can feel pathologizing.
It separates autism from the individual, treating it as something to be "fixed." In contrast, identity-first language normalizes autism as an intrinsic part of a person, much like being tall or having blue eyes.
Research suggests that person first language reinforces societal biases, positioning conditions like autism as inherently negative. By contrast, identity-first language reduces stigma by normalizing conditions like autism as part of human diversity.
For example, while society says "neurotypical child" to describe a non-autistic child without hesitation, using "child with autism" implies that autism is a condition to be separated from the person. This subtle linguistic difference can profoundly affect how autistic individuals are perceived and treated.
1. Listen To Preferences.
While identity-first language is the default for many autistic individuals, preferences can vary. Always respect personal choices when engaging with individuals and their families.
2. Educate Yourself.
As Meg suggests, understanding the autistic perspective requires continuous learning. Seek out autistic voices, blogs, and podcasts to deepen your understanding of their experiences and preferences.
3. Lead With Empathy.
Changing language habits can be challenging, especially when working with families accustomed to older terminology. Approach conversations with kindness and understanding, offering information rather than confrontation.
4. Start Small.
Begin by incorporating identity-first language into your everyday vocabulary. Explain the shift when appropriate, using it to educate others about the importance of inclusive language.
While changing how we talk about autism is crucial, it’s only the beginning. Meg Proctor stresses that the real work lies in shifting how we think about autism and supporting autistic individuals.
The goal is to move away from compliance-based approaches and embrace strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming practices. Authentic support requires listening to a diverse range of autistic voices—including those from marginalized groups—and understanding autism as a different but valid way of being.
Language shapes how we perceive and interact with the world. By adopting an identity-first language, parents, therapists, and educators can help normalize autism and reduce stigma.
However, as Proctor reminds us, “Changing your language is important, but it’s a superficial step compared to the deep work we need to do.” Through ongoing learning and empathy, we can create a world where autistic individuals are fully accepted and supported to live their most authentic lives.
BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS
While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views and opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties and what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.
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