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Published on: February 16, 2011
Does Terminology Matter? Perspectives From People With Limb Difference, Clinicians, and Researchers
M G Finco1, Cody L McDonald2, Sarah C Moudy3
1Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX.
Terminology preferences vary among individuals with limb difference and professionals. While "residual limb" and "person with limb difference" were common, context and individuality are key for appropriate language. Amputee was preferred by some for population discussions.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Disability Studies
- Health Communication
Background:
- Terminology surrounding limb difference significantly impacts patient-provider communication and self-identity.
- Understanding preferred language is crucial for respectful and effective healthcare interactions.
- Existing research often lacks the perspectives of individuals with limb difference themselves.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and compare preferred terminology for limb difference among affected individuals and healthcare/research professionals.
- To explore the importance of terminology and preferences for person-first versus identity-first language.
- To inform the development of person-centered language guidelines.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 122 participants (65 people with limb difference, 57 professionals).
- Participants were adults (≥18 years) residing in the US with relevant experience or self-identification.
- The survey assessed the importance of terminology, language preferences (person-first vs. identity-first), and specific term choices.
Main Results:
- A majority of participants identified as White; age differed significantly between groups.
- Terminology importance was high for both groups, particularly professionals (70%) and people with limb difference (50%).
- While professionals favored person-first language (73.7%), people with limb difference showed a near even split (50.8% person-first, 42.9% identity-first). "Residual limb" and "individual/person with limb difference" were most common, though "amputee" was preferred by some for population reference.
Conclusions:
- Both groups recognized the importance of terminology, generally preferring "residual limb" and "individual/person with limb difference."
- A significant portion of people with limb difference preferred identity-first language, highlighting diverse perspectives.
- Terminology choices should prioritize individuality and context, with future research needing broader demographic and etiological representation.
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