The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines developmental disabilities as “a group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language, or behavior areas.” While most developmental disabilities begin before an individual is born, some can result after birth due to an injury or infection. Developmental disabilities may impact daily functioning and usually last a lifetime. A few examples of developmental disabilities include:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Cerebral palsy
- Hearing loss
- Tourette syndrome
- Epilepsy
To foster a more inclusive environment, use people-first language. People-first language acknowledges that a developmental disability is part of a person’s identity, not their entire identity. Examples of people-first language include:
- Person with ________ (type of impairment)
- Person with a disability
- Individuals with ________ (type of impairment)
- Individuals with disabilities
Other examples of this language can be found in the terminology section of the summer 2024 newsletter.
Remember that individual preferences vary. Some individuals may prefer to use identity-first language as they consider their disability a core part of their identity. For example, a person may refer to themselves as an autistic person instead of a person with autism. When in doubt, ask individuals how they prefer to be identified.
