Category: I

Identity‑first language places the identity before the person, such as autistic person. Many autistic people prefer this because it recognises autism as an integral part of identity, not something separate or negative.

A brief history

Identity‑first language gained traction in disability and autistic advocacy in the 1990s–2000s as a response to person‑first language. Advocates argued that person‑first phrasing (person with autism) implied that autism was something undesirable to be separated from the person.

As the identity model of disability grew—emphasising disability as a cultural, political, and lived identity rather than a deficit—identity-first language became a way to affirm pride, belonging, and community. It aligns closely with movements such as the Deaf and disability rights communities, where naming identity upfront is part of claiming autonomy, resisting stigma, and recognising the value of disabled ways of being.

Intersex people are individuals who have a combination of what is culturally thought of as male and female anatomy or physiology. In short, an intersex person will have an anatomy or physiology that does not fit into the rigid definitions of male or female.

Some intersex people have genitalia that does not fit exclusively into the constructs of male or female. Other intersex people might have internal reproductive organs that do not match their external sex characteristics. Being intersex is not a disorder, and is a perfectly normal and healthy way to exist. 

Intersex is simply a common variation of the human body. In fact, according to The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, there are approximately 358,105 people with intersex variations in the UK alone. Many people may not be aware that they are intersex, since many intersex variations are not external.

Other definitions/things to note:

The biggest thing that intersex people need is support from their family and peers. For intersex children, it is important for them to have support and love from their families, and the opportunity to connect with other children that are also intersex.

​Infodumping is a term used to describe, often in regards to a neurodivergent person, the act of suddenly sharing information about things that they love or have a keen interest in. This may be done in great detail and for a long time.

For autistic/ADHD/AuDHD people, info dumping can be a common way to communicate. It helps them to explore their passions and share what they know. This way of communicating often highlights facts, details, and a strong understanding of the topic. When an autistic person infodumps, they are excited and may engage in what can seem like a monologue about what they know. They might not notice if the listener seems to lose interest.

It is important to see info dumping as a normal part of autistic communication. This recognition helps create understanding and positive interactions.

Other definitions/things to note:

Navigating social interactions can be particularly challenging for many neurodivergent people. For an autistic person, Infodumping can be a way of self-comforting and also a way to emotionally connect with someone. It is therefore important that an autistic person feels that they are in a safe space with understanding and responsive company.