| Language influences behavior. Inclusive language is a powerful ingredient for achieving successful outcomes that are beneficial for the whole community. Consider the following language guidelines when referring to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. |
|
- Use people-first language. Place the emphasis on the individual instead of the disability.
- Use language that is respectful and straightforward.
- Refer to a person’s disability only if it is relevant.
- Remember that individuals are unique and have diverse abilities and characteristics.
| - Avoid terms that lead to exclusion (e.g., “special” is associated with “separate” and “segregated” services).
- Avoid judgmental, negative, or sensational terms (e.g., brave, courageous, dumb, super-human).
- Avoid making assumptions or generalizations about the level of functioning of an individual based on diagnosis or disability“segregated” services).
- Avoid judgmental, negative, or sensational terms (e.g., brave, courageous, dumb, super-human).
- Avoid making assumptions or generalizations about the level of functioning of an individual based on diagnosis.
|
|