Disability naming

 

Guideline & Principle	Problematic Language Pattern	Respectful, Person-Centered Alternative	Clinical & Social Impact
1. Individual Uniqueness (Avoid homogeneous grouping)	"The intellectually disabled," "the disabled," "the handicapped."	"People with intellectual disabilities," "individuals with developmental conditions."	Replaces broad objectification with individual identity; emphasises personhood before diagnosis.
2. Avoid Inspiration Framing (Avoid setting people apart)	"So brave," "courageous," "inspiring just for getting through the day."	State accomplishments directly (e.g., "She graduated with honours," "He started a new job").	Prevents "inspiration porn" and patronising praise; treats daily life and achievements on equal adult footing.
3. Reject Expressions of Pity (Avoid sensationalising struggle)	"What a shame," "How awful for the family," "What a tragic burden."	Focus on support and rights (e.g., "What services or accommodations are most helpful?").	Shifts the focus away from pity and toward equity, access, inclusion, and practical support.
4. Use Clear, Direct Terminology (Avoid vague euphemisms)	"Differently abled," "special needs," "developmentally challenged."	Clear, standard terms preferred by the individual or community (e.g., "disabled," "autistic," "has an intellectual disability").	Euphemisms often convey discomfort with disability. Clear language ensures precision in legal rights, medical access, and accommodations.
5. Avoid Victimising Language (Avoid assuming suffering)	"Suffers from," "is a victim of," "is afflicted with," "bound to a wheelchair."	Neutral, factual phrasing: "has an intellectual disability," "uses a wheelchair."	Removes negative assumptions about quality of life and avoids portraying disability as an inherent tragedy.
6. Promote Equal Status (Avoid 'Normal' vs. 'Abnormal')	Describing non-disabled people as "normal" or "healthy" in contrast to disabled people.	"People without disabilities," "neurotypical," "non-disabled."	Eliminates the implication that disabled individuals are inherently "abnormal," substandard, or lesser members of society.