Does terminology make a difference?

There is a big debate about what terminology should be used regarding autism. ASD? With autism? Has autism? Autistic? Before I was diagnosed I never really thought about it and it didn't bother me what term was used for my kids.  I didn't realise the impact that it might have. I never had time to research it and explore what it all means. But now I am making the time.

Examples of first person language would be "my son has autism" and "person with ASD".  This way of thinking puts the person before any condition or disability, which can be a positive approach in some ways e.g. people with an illness.  The argument against this approach is that being autistic is an integral part of the person and using first person language suggests that the autism can be separated from the person or that it is like a disease in need of a cure.  This side of the argument suggests using the term autistic highlights that being autistic does not mean you are less than or in need of fixing.  Being autistic means your brain is wired differently and it affects how you experience the world around you, which deserves to be valued.  

So, what do I think of all this?  Well, I personally hate the term ASD (Autistic Spectrum Disorder).  I am not disordered, neither are my children.  We may find aspects of this neurotypical world difficult to manage but we are of value and deserve to be respected.  Since my own diagnosis I prefer the term autistic.  I am autistic, it is who I am, it is how I think, how I feel and how I see the world.  It is not an extra part of me, it is me and I am proud of it.  However, I believe people deserve the right to make up their own minds and use the terms that the autistic person prefers, if they can make that decision for themselves.  So, I urge you to ask what the autistic person in your life would prefer and if that's not possible research a few articles or books and see what you think is most respectful.

What is your opinion?  Person first language e.g. with autism?  Or autistic person?  Or do you like the term ASD?  Let me know by leaving a comment below.