Which one is positive, treatment or care? Well,  you may think ‘Aren’t both positive words?’. In fact, yes. However, when it comes to autism, the word treatment imparts a slightly negative feel. Positive language in autism care is important. See, using the word ‘care’ can make a huge difference in the minds of people around people with autism. 

Can you imagine your physical or mental challenge being your permanent adjective? That’s where positive language in autism becomes important. Language contributes largely to shaping perceptions, influencing self-esteem, and impacting the understanding of a person with autism. So, choosing a positive language is essential for understanding, acceptance, and empowerment of them.

The Need for Language Evolution in Autism Care

I am not ignoring the positive evolution of language used in autism care. But there is a lot more to change. The language used in autism care is largely negative or deficit-focused. This negative language imparts stigma, lowers self-esteem, and creates a state of otherness. But just think of the impact it can make if we focus on strength, talent, and perspectives. 

What if we start using ‘communication differences’ or ‘communication uniqueness’ instead of communication difficulty? 

What if we start saying ‘engages is self-regulating practices’ or ‘finds comfort in routine actions’ instead of ‘exhibiting repetitive behavior’?

What if we consider the term ‘unique social interaction patterns’ or ‘social interactions in their own way’ instead of ‘lack of social skills’?

How beautiful! Won’t it be so comforting for the dear ones of the person with autism? 

Towards Language Evolution in Autism Care

Language matters a lot and the evolution to positive can bring a great change in the building the perspective about people with autism in the society. Well, how to achieve the evolution to positive language in autism care? Let’s see. 

1. Use Person-First Language:

You might have already noticed that I  have been using ‘people with autism’ and ‘person with autism’ in this blog and our previous blogs. This is far more impactful (in a positive way) than using ‘autistic person’. Autism is just one aspect of their identity. It cannot be their entire identity. Respecting individuality and humanity, always use person-first language until the situation or the preference of the person demands otherwise. 

1. Focus on Abilities and Unique Perspectives:

You might have already seen people with autism performing great in music, arts, sports, and other creative activities. People with autism exhibit a wide range of talents, skills, and abilities. They are known for their attention to detail, no matter what they engage in. Strong visual thinking skills and exceptional memory place them above us, the ordinary people. If they find a field interesting, they focus deeply on complete honesty, directness, and unique problem-solving abilities. When dealing with autism you are dealing with neurodiversity. Yes, autism is a natural variation, not a disorder.

1. Identify the Emotional Impact of Positive Language

Put yourself in the shoes of someone close to a person with autism. In a state where you need to interact continuously language should be positive. The emotional impact of positive language is high. It boosts self-esteem and confidence and contributes to an inclusive and accepting environment. 

When coming out of the scenario and thinking as a member of society, the usage of positive language in autism care 

• Empowers families and caregivers 
• Fosters optimistic and supportive outlook 
• Helps neurotypical individuals understand and empathize.

It’s important for everyone to feel a sense of belonging. As a society, we can act as a support group for the dear ones caring the people with autism. 

What We Are Expected to Do for Positive Language in Autism Care?

As a responsible member of society, there are many things you can do for people with autism in terms of using positive language in autism care, 

• Be more conscious of language when speaking, writing, and even thinking
• Choose a person-first language 
• Focus on the strengths and abilities
• Always avoid negative or stigmatizing terms 
• Listen to and respect language preferences 

Your responsibility doesn’t stop here. Keep educating yourself and others with positive language terms. If you don’t have an expert to take advice from, connect with an autism care center near you. 

You will have a say on this or an experience to share. Come, let’s inspire others. Share thoughts and experiences in the comments.