When it comes to talking about autism, the language we use matters. You may have heard both “autistic person” and “person with autism” used to describe individuals, and there is often discussion about which term is more respectful or accurate. The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Both terms are acceptable, and the preference depends on the individual.
Autistic Person
Many autistic adults prefer the term “autistic person” because they see autism as an integral part of their identity. For them, autism is not something separate from who they are — it is a fundamental aspect of their experiences, perspectives, and the way they move through the world. Using “autistic person” embraces autism as a key part of their identity, similar to how someone might identify as a “tall person” or “left-handed person.” It is a way to acknowledge that autism shapes their unique qualities in a positive and accepted way.
Person with Autism
On the other hand, some people prefer the term “person with autism” because it emphasizes the individual first and the diagnosis second. Some have told me this perspective can feel more respectful to those who do not want autism to define them firstly. By saying “person with autism,” the focus is placed on the person first, not their diagnosis. Some feel this language creates space for their individuality to shine.
Why We Use Both
At autiism.com, we understand that language is personal, and we respect both viewpoints. That’s why you’ll see both “autistic child/person” and “child/person with autism” used throughout our blog. We aim to be inclusive of the many perspectives within the autism community. While some individuals may strongly prefer one term over the other, we believe using both reflects the diversity of experiences and opinions within the community.
Going forward, please know that both terms are equally acceptable in this blog. Whether you feel that autism is an important part of your identity, or if you prefer it to be seen as just one aspect of who you are, we respect your choice.
