"It Defines Who I Am" or "It's Something I Have": What Language Do [Autistic] Australian Adults [on the Autism Spectrum] Prefer?

The team asked 198 autistic adults in Australia which words they want others to use. They gave a list of ten labels like "person with autism" and "autistic person." Participants picked the three they liked best and the three they disliked most.

Top picks were "autistic," "person on the autism spectrum," and "autistic person." Least liked were "person affected by autism" and "suffering from autism." Most adults saw autism as part of their identity, not an illness.

Logos et al. (2025) show that police officers often misread autistic traits. Using the person’s chosen label is one quick way to show respect and maybe lower tension.

Barrett et al. (2015) found that hospital staff who listened to parents got better results. Asking an adult client the same question — "What should I call you?" — keeps that client-centered spirit.

Mahdi et al. (2018) list 110 ways autism can affect life. Language choice is one of the easiest environmental factors you can control today.

Your report might be read by teachers, doctors, or employers who copy your words. Writing "autistic adult" or asking first sets a respectful tone. It costs nothing and aligns with the client’s own identity. Start the session with "How do you like to describe yourself?" and use that term throughout.