Say It Right: A Neurodiversity Language Guide for Allies
Briefly

The article discusses how language plays a critical role in shaping the lives of neurodiverse individuals. It highlights the distinction between terms like "disorder" and "difference," explaining their impact on treatment by institutions and self-perception. The author notes that outdated terminology often propagated by media and advocacy groups can create confusion about language use in neurodiversity discourse. Additionally, the term "neurodiversity" emerged in the 1990s as a means to celebrate neurological variations rather than normalize them as disorders. The article offers guidance on appropriate language use in various contexts.
Language impacts the way neurodiverse individuals are treated across various sectors, influencing their self-perception, opportunities for employment, and housing stability.
Evolving language surrounding neurodiversity can create confusion when outdated terminology is perpetuated, leading to misunderstandings and reinforcing old paradigms.
Read at Psychology Today
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