Nicole Newman, MS, OTR/L
Language is an ever-evolving art. The “rules” continuously change. Language has power, and therefore we should wield it carefully. When talking to or about individuals, we are taught early on how to appropriately address others and follow the rules of social courtesies and respect. However, as social norms evolve, these shifts yield mindset changes toward what is considered “appropriate language,” to the extent that it can be difficult to keep up! What may have been a “socially acceptable term” two years ago may not be today.
