Navigating Terminology: How to Refer to Disabled People and Why It Matters

Have you ever paused mid-sentence, unsure whether to say, "disabled person" or "person with a disability"? This seemingly small choice reflects broader conversations about identity, dignity, and empowerment—and it’s no surprise that this terminology is one of the more debated and sometimes contentious topics in disability inclusion.

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Even advocates working toward the same goals often find themselves at odds over phrases like "disabled person" versus "person with a disability." These differences aren’t just semantic; they reveal how we view people and their experiences.

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This article isn’t about choosing sides but about equipping you with the knowledge to navigate these terms thoughtfully and respectfully. Whether you’re new to disability awareness or looking to refine your communication skills, this is a great place to start.

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Let’s dive into the details. We’ll explore the origins and implications of person-first, identity-first, and group terminology, as well as practical tips to help you approach these conversations with confidence. Ready to unpack this somewhat complex but crucial topic? Let’s begin.

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Why it is important

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When talking about disability, many people hesitate over which terms to use—and that hesitation often comes from a good place: wanting to get it right. But sometimes, hesitation itself can create unintended barriers. Here’s a tip: the goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection.

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The way we talk about disability shapes how people experience the world. Even seemingly small choices, like “person with a disability” versus “disabled person,” carry deeper meanings influenced by culture and personal identity. Understanding these differences helps us communicate in ways that genuinely value people.

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Breaking Down the Terms

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Person-First Language

Examples: “Person with a disability,” “Individual with a visual impairment”

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This approach places the person before their disability, emphasizing their humanity rather than defining them by perceived limitations. It gained prominence in the mid-20th century as part of efforts to combat the pervasive stigma surrounding disability, promoting dignity and reducing stereotypes.

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Why Some Prefer It:

·?????? It centres the person, not the disability.

·?????? It aims to reduce stereotypes by separating identity from disability.

·?????? It’s widely used in medical, legal, and academic contexts, particularly in the U.S.

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"I prefer 'person with a disability' because it reminds people that I’m more than my disability. It’s a part of my life, but it doesn’t define everything about me." — Jessica, wheelchair user

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Criticisms:

·?????? Person-first language emphasizes the person over their disability, but some feel it can come across as overly formal or as distancing the disability from identity in ways that may not resonate with everyone.

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"To me, 'person with a disability' feels like it’s trying to separate who I am from my disability, like it’s something to tiptoe around. My disability isn’t something I want to distance myself from." — Liam, autistic advocate

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Identity-First Language

Examples: “Disabled person,” “Blind individual”

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This approach places the disability front and centre as an inherent, valued part of a person’s identity. It gained traction in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, driven by advocacy movements within disabled communities. This shift reflects the social model of disability, which reframes disability as a result of societal barriers rather than individual deficits.

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For many, identity-first language is a way to reclaim disability as a source of pride and empowerment, challenging stigma and celebrating diversity.

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Why Some Prefer It:

·?????? It embraces disability as a natural, integral part of identity.

·?????? It challenges the idea that disability is inherently negative.

·?????? It connects to a sense of pride, especially in communities like Deaf culture.

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"I am a disabled person, and I’m proud of that. My disability has shaped how I see the world, and it’s a vital part of who I am." — Emma, disability activist

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Criticisms:

·?????? Some feel it places too much emphasis on the disability, potentially overshadowing other aspects of identity.

·?????? In certain contexts, like healthcare, it might conflict with norms favouring person-first language.

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"I understand the pride behind 'disabled person,' but in medical settings, person-first language feels more appropriate. It reminds professionals that I’m not just a condition—they’re treating a whole person." — Amir, chronic illness advocate

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Group Terminology

Examples: “Persons with disabilities,” “Disabled people”

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When referring to communities, the language varies depending on culture and context.

·?????? “Persons with disabilities” is common in formal settings, like UN documents such as the ‘Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities’ (CRPD), and reflects person-first principles.

·?????? “Disabled people” is often preferred in advocacy settings, particularly in the UK, as it reflects identity-first principles such as the Social Model.

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Both these group terms come with challenges:

·?????? Group terminology can feel broad, impersonal, or fail to capture the diversity within the community.

·?????? Group terminology can make it easy to fall into using terms like “the blind” or “the disabled.” While intended to refer to a community, these phrases can unintentionally objectify or dehumanize by framing individuals solely through their disability. This underscores the importance of phrasing like “blind people” or “disabled individuals” that maintain a sense of humanity and individuality.

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Caveat: That said, some communities, such as the Deaf community, intentionally use terms like "the Deaf" to express pride and a shared cultural identity. In such cases, it’s important to respect these in-group preferences while recognizing that they may not resonate with everyone outside the community.

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Why Preferences Vary

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The diversity in disability terminology reflects deeper cultural, historical, and personal influences:

·?????? Medical vs. Social Models of Disability: Person-first language aligns with the medical model, which focuses on impairments. Identity-first language connects to the social model, which highlights societal barriers.

·?????? Regional Differences: In the US, person-first language reflects therapeutic and academic roots. In the UK, identity-first language ties into disability activism and the social model. In parts of Asia and Africa, terminology may reflect traditional cultural attitudes or collective frameworks, emphasizing community responsibility over individual identity.

·?????? Individual Identity: For some, disability is core to who they are. For others, it’s something they prefer to keep separate from their sense of self.

·?????? Contextual Use: Advocacy groups might Favor "disabled people," while formal documents often lean toward "persons with disabilities."

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And let’s not forget—language evolves. What’s respectful today might feel outdated tomorrow.

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Best Practices for Inclusive Language

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Navigating these terms can feel tricky, but these simple tips can help you approach conversations with confidence and respect:

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1.??? Ask and Respect Preferences: If you’re unsure, just ask! Whether it’s an individual or a group, knowing how people prefer to be identified shows respect and thoughtfulness.

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2.??? Consider the Context: The right terminology might vary depending on the setting. Advocacy spaces may Favor identity-first language, while formal documents might lean toward person-first terms.

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3.??? Avoid Objectifying Terms: Refrain from using collective phrases like “the blind” or “the disabled” that define individuals solely by their disability.

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4.??? Acknowledge Diversity: No single term works for everyone. Try using inclusive phrases like “people with lived experiences of disability” when speaking to a broad audience.

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5.??? Stay Curious and Open: Follow conversations in the disability community to stay up to date, and be open to feedback if someone offers a different perspective.

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6.??? Respect Different Preferences: Language is deeply personal, and preferences reflect individual lived experiences. Whether you are disabled yourself or not, avoid criticizing or debating preferences that differ from your own. Instead, focus on listening, learning, and mutual respect.

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7.??? Focus on Empowerment: Choose language that respects and values individuals, avoiding terms that might feel alienating or dismissive.

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My Perspective

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For me, identity-first language feels natural. My blindness is a significant part of who I am, shaping how I navigate and interact with the world. But I recognize that others may feel differently. Rather than impose my personal preference, I follow my own best practices — respecting individual preferences, adapting to the context, and acknowledging that, for some, person-first language better reflects their experiences, especially in settings where disability is not a primary focus.

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Neither approach is inherently better or more inclusive—it ultimately depends on personal and contextual factors. Language is a powerful tool for inclusion. When we use it thoughtfully, we create spaces where everyone feels respected, valued, and understood.

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Final Thoughts

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Whether you prefer “person with a disability” or “disabled person,” the heart of the matter is respect. Person-first language highlights humanity above all, while identity-first language embraces disability as an integral part of identity. Both approaches have their strengths and their place, depending on context and personal preference.

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I know I haven’t put the debate to bed, but I hope I’ve given you the tools to navigate it thoughtfully and the understanding to approach these conversations with respect. By recognizing the nuances and listening to the preferences of individuals and communities, we can move beyond terminology to what really counts: creating spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered.

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Your Turn: Share Your Perspective

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How has the person-first vs. identity-first conversation shaped your understanding of disability language? Have you encountered challenges or moments of clarity in your own journey? Share your thoughts, stories, or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear from you.

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Together, let’s continue the conversation and champion inclusive language for all.

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#PersonFirst #IdentityFirst #DisabilityAwareness #InclusiveLanguage #RespectfulCommunication