Using respectful language about dyslexia and neurodiversity allows for dialogue, which is the first step towards building collaborative relationships.
Please Use:
- Dyslexic or Nondyslexic
- Neurodiverse, Neurodivergent, Neurotypical, or Neurotype
- ADD or ADHD or AuDHD
- Dysgraphic or Dysgraphia
- Autistic or Autism
- Accessible, Accessibility, Access Needs, or Accommodations
- Disabled, Disability, or Nondisabled
- Co-occurrence
- Differences
- Characteristics
- Signs of dyslexia
- Approximately 17% of people are dyslexic
- Approximately 17% of people are on the dyslexic spectrum
IFL or PFL?
Neurodivergent communities tend to be Identify First Language (IFL) communities (example: dyslexic, autistic, etc.). If someone requests you use Person First Language (person with dyslexia), that is also completely fine.
Neurodiverse or Neurodivergent?
Some people prefer the term neurodivergent, while others prefer neurodiverse. At the DPLI, we tend to use the term neurodiverse. However, we also recognize that many people strongly prefer neurodivergent and respect each person’s right to identify in a way that feels right to them.
Please Do Not Use:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Comorbidity
- Overcome, conquer
- Normal or abnormal
- Disorder, disease, symptoms, and pathologizing language.
- Red flags, warning signs, lifelong, symptoms
Avoid negative language or attitudes about neurodiversity.
Nondyslexic?
Please prioritize diversity, equity, inclusion, and lived experience. If you are nondyslexic, avoid speaking on behalf of dyslexics or other marginalized communities. “Speaking for” includes creating presentations, publications, initiatives, displays, and social media posts.
If you hold a position of power and privilege, use your influence as an ally to create meaningful opportunities for people who are underrepresented. Make space for their voices, wisdom, and expertise rather than speaking for them.