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The evolution of autism terminology has shifted dramatically over time, from PDD-NOS and Asperger's to the current three levels of autism in the DSM-5. Understanding these changes helps church leaders better serve individuals with autism while recognizing that getting to know each person is far more valuable than relying on diagnostic labels.
• Over 65 million Americans (25% of the population) have a disability, yet 80% are not inside church walls
• Temple Grandin believes removing Asperger's syndrome from the DSM-5 was a significant mistake
• Parents often use varied descriptors because a single label cannot fully capture their child's experience
• The debate between person-first and identity-first language reflects different approaches to disability identity
• Current DSM-5 categorizes autism into three levels based on required support
• Always start by assuming competence rather than limitations
• Understanding autism terminology helps facilitate better conversations with families
• Our identity as Christ-followers should take precedence over any other identifier
Visit indispensable-people.com for deeper dives into these topics and check out "The Indispensable Kid" and "Gospel, Accessibility and the Indispensable People" on Amazon.