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Current Challenges and Future Directions With Terminology: The Impact of Ableism and Identity
Andrea Barton-Hulsey1, Karen Erickson2, Rose A Sevcik3
1Florida State University, Tallahasee.
American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology
|September 8, 2025
Summary
The National Joint Committee for the Communication Needs of Persons with Severe Disabilities (NJC) reviewed terminology for individuals with intellectual disability. Survey results show a preference for language that avoids focusing on needs and clearly identifies this marginalized group for advocacy.
Area of Science:
- Disability Studies
- Communication Sciences
- Intellectual Disability Research
Background:
- The National Joint Committee for the Communication Needs of Persons with Severe Disabilities (NJC) has historically advocated for individuals with intellectual disability and significant communication needs.
- Evolving terminology impacts advocacy efforts for individuals with intellectual disability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the history of terminology used for individuals with intellectual disability.
- To report on a survey of NJC Network members regarding preferred terminology.
- To discuss the implications of terminology choices for advocacy.
Main Methods:
- A literature review examined historical terminology for individuals with intellectual disability.
- A survey was distributed to NJC Network members, including practitioners, researchers, AAC users, and family members.
- Survey data and qualitative comments were analyzed to understand terminology preferences.
Main Results:
- While over half of survey respondents endorsed "extensive support needs," written feedback indicated a strong desire to move beyond need-focused descriptions.
- Respondents emphasized the need for terminology that explicitly identifies a historically marginalized group.
- There is a clear call for terminology that guides advocacy efforts.
Conclusions:
- The NJC acknowledges the critical role of language in identifying and supporting individuals with severe disabilities.
- Careful consideration of terminology is essential for effective advocacy and promoting communication and societal participation.
- The NJC remains committed to using language that supports growth and development for individuals with intellectual disability.
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