1. Avoid labelling someone elseās identity as a negative
When labelling someone, ask yourself: does the label reference an existing stigma that could offend a group?
If the answer is yes, itās best to shift the language to an example that ends stigma, not adds to it, unless it is specific and contextual to a facet of care.
Cautionary examples
āOh my gosh, Iām such an idiotā to describe something as silly or dismissive.
The term idiot is a slur used to describe people with intellectual disabilities.
Words like these further stigmatize clients who have mental illnesses and add to harmful stereotypes about them.
Instead, demonstrate examples with phrasing that describes the situation as honestly as possible. E.g., āOh my gosh, I made a mistake.ā
For consideration
You can demonstrate an automatic negative thought or other consideration without using a slur.
Suggested additional resources
This glossary provides alternatives for common non-inclusive words and phrases: www.autistichoya.com