--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: The word “autistic” is accurate. But so…" description: "\"“The word “autistic” is accurate. But so are other words that we no longer use to describe people: spinster (unmarried woman), hobo (migrant worker), c..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e6e/ellen-notbohm-48388_autism_the-word-autistic-is-accurate-but-so-are_2807035.jpg" --- # The word “autistic” is accurate. But so are other words… ![“The word “autistic” is accurate. But so are other words that we no longer use to describe people: spinster (unmarried woman), hobo (migrant worker), cripple (person with a physical handicap), and so on. The fact that a person is unmarried or has sustained a mobility-reducing injury or birth defect…” quote by Ellen Notbohm](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e6e/ellen-notbohm-48388_autism_the-word-autistic-is-accurate-but-so-are_2807035.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e6e/ellen-notbohm-48388_autism_the-word-autistic-is-accurate-but-so-are_2807035.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e6e/ellen-notbohm-48388_autism_the-word-autistic-is-accurate-but-so-are_2807035.jpg) > ““The word “autistic” is accurate. But so are other words that we no longer use to describe people: spinster (unmarried woman), hobo (migrant worker), cripple (person with a physical handicap), and so on. The fact that a person is unmarried or has sustained a mobility-reducing injury or birth defect certainly figures into their life experiences, but it does not define their character—unless they or we let it.”” [Ellen Notbohm](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/ellen-notbohm/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Labels describe conditions but should not define a person's character or worth. **In simple terms:** Words are descriptors, not identities. Key Takeaway Focus on character, not labels. Themes identity language stigma Mood thoughtful empathetic Type philosophical inspirational When to use this quote - mental health advocacy - inclusive communication - education - policy making Key Concepts social labeling human dignity Questions to Reflect On - How do you see labels affecting self‑perception? - Can you practice language that honors personhood? A Different Perspective Overemphasis on labels can reinforce stereotypes. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet [Autism](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/autism/) [Autistic](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/autistic/) [Life](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/life/) [Life experiences](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/life-experiences/) ## Related quotes > [Know what a loner is? He's a born cripple. He's a cripple because the only person he can live with is himself. It's his…](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/kirk-douglas/know-what-a-loner-is-he-s-a-born-cripple-he-s-a-cripple-because-the/) [Kirk Douglas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/kirk-douglas/) > [I was born a cripple, with two club feet, and mild polio in the left leg. 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