For journalists and other media content producers

Talking sensitively, accurately, and positively about autism in the media is crucial. Autistic people and their families want society to understand both the challenges and strengths associated with being autistic, and to be more inclusive and empathetic.

This guide aims to help you write about autism and understand the needs of autistic interviewees.

About autism

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that affects how someone communicates and experiences the world around them. It exists on a spectrum, meaning two different autistic people will have very different strengths and challenges. Some autistic people may live independently, some may require support in certain areas of their lives, and others may need full-time care. Many autistic people have co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, epilepsy or a learning disability, which affect them in day-to-day life.

Understanding language

In a recent consultation, the majority of autistic people preferred the term autistic instead of person with autism. For example, he is autistic or an autistic adult. However, individuals may have their own preferences. If in doubt, ask.

Autism is a type of neurodivergence, but not every neurodivergent person is autistic. For example, someone might be dyslexic and non-autistic and still be neurodivergent. An individual is neurodivergent, and a group of people with different neurotypes are neurodiverse (think biodiverse).

The term Aspergers (sometimes shortened to Aspie) is no longer used, although some people may still use this label for themselves.

When talking about autism, some people use the term disability, but disorder should be avoided. Autism should never be described as a disease.

Some people may use the terms mild, or severe, or high or low functioning, but others find this too simplistic or offensive. It may be best to talk about the person in terms of how being autistic affects them:

He is autistic and has a learning disability, so he benefits from support with everyday things like cooking and dressing.

Because she was autistic, she struggled with the social side of the workplace, so they provided her with a buddy.

Historically, autism has been defined by deficits. However, the neurodiversity movement has helped us understand autism in terms of differences, not deficits. For example, an autistic person might not have 'communication deficits', but instead communicates differently to non autistic people, such as being more direct and honest.

We say that someone communicates without speaking, instead of using the term non-verbal.

Negative language like suffering from or being paralysed by autism can be misleading. In many cases, autistic people do not find being autistic a problem itself, but they face huge challenges navigating a world designed for non-autistic people. It may be more appropriate to say struggling with anxiety related to autism, for example, rather than struggling with autism.

Talk about autistic people's strengths, interests and personalities. Think of a person as a whole, and don’t just focus on challenges.

Avoid abstract language, sarcasm or metaphors. Some autistic people take things literally.

Interview tips from autistic people

• Ask us how we’d like to communicate - e.g. we might not like talking on the phone.
• Don’t think we’re being rude because we react honestly or avoid shaking your hand.
• Don’t expect eye contact. For some of us, listening is easier if we look away.
• Do be patient and understanding. We may take longer to process what you've said. Give us a little time if we need it.
• Do treat autistic people with respect. If we are quiet or behave differently, don’t speak down to us. Treat us as equals.
• Don't be sad that we’re autistic. It's just the way we process the world. It’s challenging at times, but we wouldn't be the same if we weren’t autistic.
• Do mean what you say and keep your promises. Don’t say you’ll call in five minutes if you mean fifteen. If you say an interview is definitely happening, don’t cancel it at the last minute.
• Do give us as much information upfront as possible. Questions in advance, maps and pictures can help minimise anxiety.
• Ask us direct questions rather than vague, open-ended questions.

For media enquiries, contact Dan Mclean, Director of External Affairs (interim)

We can help with:

• Expert comment and insight on autism, autism research, and the policies supporting autistic people
• Connecting journalists to interviewees

If your enquiry is not media-related, please email info@autistica.org.uk to ensure your message reaches the right person.