Person-first language places the person before the identity, such as “a person with autism.” It was created to emphasise humanity before diagnosis—and is often preferred in broader disability contexts as a way of affirming personhood and dignity—but many autistic people feel it separates them from their identity.
A brief history
Person-first language gained popularity in medical and charitable contexts during the 1970s–1980s, aiming to reduce stigma by emphasising the person before the condition. Over time, autistic advocates challenged it, arguing that it pathologises autism and erases identity.