'Not a trouble': A mixed-method study of autism-related language preferences by French-Canadian adults from the autism community

Added on 16/10/2024

Type de contenu

Journal article of the type Scientific research ( ; english)

Stéphanie Fecteau , Claude Normand , Gabriel Normandeau , Isia Cloutier , Lucila Guerrero * , Stéphanie Turgeon , Marie-Hélène Poulin
'Not a trouble': A mixed-method study of autism-related language preferences by French-Canadian adults from the autism community published in the journal "Neurodiversity" n°2, 13 pages , doi: 10.1177/27546330241253696

*One co-author has publicly identified as autistic. [Learn more about this mention]

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Summary/Presentation

Finding a consensual term for persons diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder has recently been debated in the scientific literature. Considering the stigma associated with using terms deemed offensive, it is paramount to address autism respectfully and consensually. As of now, this study is the first to consult French-Canadian participants beyond autistic people themselves. This mixed-method study aimed to document and understand the preference and offensiveness of terms used to refer to persons living with autism. Participants (N = 327) were adults who self-identified as part of the autism community (i.e., autistic person, family or friends, professionals, or clinicians). By means of an online survey, they rated and ranked six terms used to designate an autistic person. Participants also explained their ranking. Results show no consensus for the use of any one specific term. A clear dichotomy appears between autistic adults’ and professionals’ preferences in terminology. The latter prioritized terms related to the medical model, whereas autistic persons preferred using identity-related language. Among all respondents, Autistic person was the most preferred and least offensive term. Thus, we suggest asking for the concerned person's preference whenever possible or using terminology preferred by the majority when this cannot be done.

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(3) Authors whose names are followed by an asterisk have publicly disclosed being autistic.

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