Why Use People-First Language?
"The language ... [we use] when communicating with and about people matters. Language is a powerful tool that reflects our attitudes and beliefs; while some words may make a person feel uplifted or supported, others may make them feel disrespected, stigmatized, or harmed . . . Thoughtful language choices support meaningful partnerships with individuals and ultimately bolster their success in meeting their own...goals."
Resources for Integrated Care (2020, April 6). Using person-centered language. Resources for Integrated Care. https://www.resourcesforintegratedcare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Using_Person_Centered_Language_Tip_Sheet.pdf
Examples of People-First Communication
Language has power. We want to use person-centered language which focuses on the individual, and not just their symptoms.
What does this look like? In practice, person-centered language emphasizes the personhood in describing individuals. This chart gives a few examples:
| Use These Words... | Instead of This Term... |
|---|---|
| Person/people with disability | Disabled |
| Person with a substance use disorder | Addict |
| Person with, who has | Suffers from |
Instead of using the term "addict" to describe a client, we want to describe them as "a person with a substance use disorder."
