This study explored how autistic and non-autistic people feel about the words used to describe autism, especially in relation to their support for the neurodiversity movement. It found that terms like “neurodivergent,” “difference,” and “disability” were generally preferred, while words like “disorder” and ”deficit” were often disliked, especially by those who supported the neurodiversity movement. These findings can help guide the use of more respectful and inclusive language when talking about autism.
This study explored how autistic and non-autistic people feel about the words used to describe autism, especially in relation to their support for the neurodiversity movement. It found that terms like “neurodivergent,” “difference,” and “disability” were generally preferred, while words like “disorder” and ”deficit” were often disliked, especially by those who supported the neurodiversity movement. These findings can help guide the use of more respectful and inclusive language when talking about autism.
