Refer to a disability only when it’s relevant to the story and, when possible, confirm the diagnosis with a reputable source, such as a medical professional or other licensed professional.

The guide was developed by the National Center on Disability and Journalism at Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication and was last updated in the summer of 2021.įirst, we would like to offer some basic guidelines:

This style guide, which covers dozens of words and terms commonly used when referring to disability, can help. Even the term “disability” is not universally accepted. You can also download the NCDJ Style Guide as a PDF.Īs language, perceptions and social mores change rapidly, it is becoming increasingly difficult for journalists and other communicators to figure out how to refer to people with disabilities. You can also access a Romanian translation of the guide here. Access the Spanish language translation of this guide here.Īn Italian version of the guide is available here.

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