How We Talk about Autism
The words we choose shape how autistic people are seen, valued, and supported. At CACIC we aim for language that affirms identity and respects the person in front of us, in both English and Chinese.
At a glance
- Kind, accurate words help autistic people feel understood rather than fixed.
- Most autistic people prefer identity-first language, so CACIC uses it by default.
- Some terms, like high or low functioning, flatten a person into a label.
- Above all, ask each person how they wish to be described and follow their lead.
Why language matters
Autism is a difference in how a person takes in and responds to the world, not an illness to be cured. The way we describe it carries weight. Kind, accurate words help people feel understood, while deficit-focused words can quietly tell someone that they are a problem to be fixed.
For Chinese families this can be especially sensitive. Translations carried over from older medical writing often sound clinical or shaming. Choosing warmer, clearer language is part of how we reduce stigma and help families talk openly about autism at home.
Identity-first vs person-first language
There are two common ways to describe someone who is autistic. Identity-first language says 'autistic person' and treats autism as part of who someone is. Person-first language says 'person with autism' and places the person ahead of the diagnosis.
When autistic people are asked, most prefer identity-first language. They tend to see autism as a natural part of their identity rather than something separate from them. For that reason CACIC uses identity-first language as our default, while always staying open to how each person wishes to be described.
Words to use, words to avoid
These are general guides, not strict rules. The aim is language that is respectful, accurate, and free of blame.
Helpful language
- Autistic person, or autistic, said in a matter-of-fact way.
- Autism is a difference in how someone processes the world.
- Describe support needs plainly, such as needs a lot of support with daily tasks.
- Distressed behaviour, which keeps the focus on the person's experience.
- Strengths and challenges, which holds both sides of the picture.
Language to avoid
- High functioning or low functioning, which flatten a person into a single label.
- Mild or severe autism, which underestimate what someone can do or need.
- Suffers from autism, or talk of a cure, since autism is lifelong and not a disease.
- Challenging behaviour, which puts the blame on the autistic person rather than the situation.
- Normal as the opposite of autistic, which frames autistic people as less than.
Let autistic people choose
The most important rule is simple. Ask the person, and respect what they tell you. Some autistic people prefer person-first language, and that choice deserves the same respect as any other.
Our defaults are a starting point, not the final word. When you listen to how someone describes themselves and follow their lead, you show that their voice matters. That is the heart of culturally aware, affirming support, and it is what we try to model in everything CACIC does.
Need support for your family?
Reach out and we will help you find the right guidance for you or the people you care for.