Why I Prefer Identity-First Language
I’m Autistic, not “on the spectrum”
Originally published November, 2021
First off, I am newly self-identified, so I am still learning about myself and about the wider neurodivergent community.
Secondly, I speak only for myself. Autistic people are not a homogenous group, there exist a variety of perspectives, opinions, and experiences amongst individuals. I do not speak for others.
It’s up to the individual to decide what terminology they feel fits them best, so please respect that person’s choice.
Why I use identity-first language
Why I say I’m Autistic, rather than I have ASD, or Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Many Autistics do not feel they are disordered, so ASD or “spectrum disorder” does not sit well. I’m divergent, as in my neurobiology diverges from the statistical norm, that’s all.
Note that when people speak about “having” a condition, it’s usually in reference to something negative. Somebody might have cancer or asthma or diabetes, because those are medical conditions that negatively impact a person’s life.
“Some people resent the suggestion that the word for their disability is so distasteful…
