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Autism Terminology Preferences Among Autistic and Non-Autistic Adults in North America
Zoe S Robertson1, Kayden M Stockwell1, Andrew J Lampi1
1University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Autism in Adulthood
|July 1, 2026
Summary
Autistic adults generally prefer identity-first language, such as "autistic person," over person-first language. This study surveyed 784 North Americans, finding a preference for identity-first terms and critical views of functioning labels.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience and Psychology
- Sociolinguistics
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Widespread debate exists regarding preferred terminology for autistic individuals, with professionals often favoring person-first language and many autistic individuals preferring identity-first language.
- Previous research has evaluated individual terms, but limited studies have directly compared preferences between identity-first and person-first categories.
- Understanding preferences for terms beyond the identity-first/person-first dichotomy is crucial for respectful communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate terminology preferences among autistic and non-autistic adults in North America.
- To compare evaluations of identity-first versus person-first language used to describe autism.
- To explore attitudes towards other autism-related terms, including functioning labels.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 784 North American adults (611 autistic).
- Participants evaluated and ranked identity-first ('autistic') and person-first ('person with autism') terms.
- Open-ended responses were collected to understand reasoning and definitions of spectrum and functioning labels.
Main Results:
- Both autistic and non-autistic participants showed a preference for identity-first terms over person-first terms in usage, ranking, and liking.
- Open-ended responses provided context for quantitative findings and revealed critical perspectives on functioning labels.
- Variability in preferences was noted, with some participants strongly favoring person-first language.
Conclusions:
- Consistent with recent research, identity-first language is generally preferred by autistic individuals in this North American sample.
- Findings highlight the importance of respecting individual preferences in autism-related language.
- Recommendations are provided for integrating these findings into future research and practice, while acknowledging limitations regarding participant diversity.
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