Autism spectrum disorder and eating disorders

A Debate Over Language

There is a debate over how to talk about autism. Is it better to use person-first language or identity-first language?

First, read this article from Northeastern University that summarizes the debate. Then, check out this study about the consequences of this debate.

Language Knowledge Check

True or false: the phrase “person on the autism spectrum” is the least polarizing way to refer to someone in the community.

True
False

True or false: By separating autism from the person, we formulate an existence or possibility of that life without autism, which has a connection to the high rate of victims of filicide-suicide incidents who were autistic.

True
False

What is the best way to refer to a client who is diagnosed with ASD?

Identity-first language (“autistic person”)
Person-first language (“person with autism”)
"Person on the spectrum"
It varies, so the best option is to ask the client.

[Video] Autism and Eating Disorders

[Video] How Occupational Therapy Helps with Sensory Integration Issues

[Handout Images] Occupational Therapy’s Role with Autism

[Links] Connections Between ARFID and Autism

Read this article about ARFID/eating disorders and autism. Then, check out the “Strategies for Addressing Eating and Feeding Problems” section of this article.