Moving from Disorder to Difference: A Systematic Review of Recent Language Use in Autism Research.

Background: The neurodiversity paradigm positions autism as a neurological difference that is disabling in the societal context, shifting away from the traditional medical view of a disorder. Several recent publications recommend use of alternative neuro-affirming language (ANL) instead of traditional medical language (TML) with the aim to increase acceptance of autistic people and reduce prejudice. Examining language use within recent autism literature, including by journal and study characteristics, may offer insight into the influence of these recommendations and current disability discourse.