Language, an integral part of our existence, holds immense power and influence. What we say and how we say it matters. In a discipline like psychology, where language defines our perception, enhances our emotions, and increases our empathy, words are an especially powerful tool. A unique attribute of psychological science is that its reach is widespread. Thus, it is even more critical to incorporate the use of inclusive language not just in our classrooms, but also in our research, practice, and communications. In its commitment to create true change in this regard, APA provides valuable guidance through the Inclusive Language Guideopens in new window.
Psychological science has progressed rapidly in the past few decades, the efforts in inclusive language should match this pace. Classrooms teaching psychology still use data that is not diverse enough to fit our evolving society. The data mainly is derived from the White population, and end up drawing generalizations from this narrow subpopulation. A 2010 analysis of published data in six subdisciplines of psychology reveal that 96% of research samples comprise of subjects from western, industrialized, educated, democratic and rich societies. Using such data leads to further inequitable social consequences and puts marginalized communities at a disadvantage (Henrich et al, 2010, pp. 61–83). Not just data, but educators and students in the classroom still use terms that are harmful to historically underrepresented and marginalized communities.
Higher education institutions have tried to reduce the stigma and bias surrounding marginalized communities by introducing offices of equity, diversity, and inclusion. However, this alone is not enough to tackle structural and systemic bias and discrimination. As a graduate student in psychology, I still see students and educators alike who often unconsciously use language that is exclusionary, even if that is not the intent behind the communication. One instance is using gendered words that categorize individuals under the gender binary. Classroom discussions of different psychological topics, research data, or case studies often default to masculine language, unless the focus is on gender diversity. Similarly, the pronouns ‘he’ or ‘she’ are frequently used instead of the gender-inclusive term ‘they’ to address the individual even when gender is not the focus of the case.
As we progress towards a society where individuals with different identities co-exist, there is a need for a well-researched resource that can aid in promoting inclusivity. APA’s second edition of its Inclusive Language Guide features new sections and additions, including:
- A new section on body size and weight stigma: Individuals who face discrimination based on their weight often experience psychological distress and emotional suffering. It is important to use neutral terms (e.g., higher weight) rather than more stigmatizing terms (e.g., fat) to preserve one’s dignity and show respect regardless of one’s body size.
- Gender-inclusive terminology related to pregnancy, with expanded content on how gender intersects with the medical condition of pregnancy: The guide advises choosing terms people identify with according to the audience and context, avoiding overly medicalized terms, and striving to be gender-inclusive.
- Expanded neurodiversity section: This section expands the definition of neurodiversity to emphasize the different ways that we all think, learn, and behave. The section also highlights the difference between neurodiversity and neurodivergence.
- Psychological research on racism: New content has been added to better demonstrate the massive impact of structural and systemic racism on mental health. It highlights the ways in which ableist terms are commonly used in everyday language (e.g., stand up for, turn a blind eye). Additionally, the guide has expanded terminology on issues related to power and equity, identity-related terms, person-first and identity-first language, cultural appropriation, pejorative language, and casually offensive language in conversation.
Striving to be inclusive in your communication may feel like entering a new world. It can be awkward, confusing, and sometimes even scary. However, avoiding conscious efforts to unlearn old behaviors may result in using language that is reductive, dehumanizing, and immensely harmful. Moving forward, efforts to remain persistent in dismantling destructive social hierarchies that harm marginalized and underrepresented people will be key to driving equitable ecosystems. And finally, learning to respect the uniqueness of intersectional identities improves lives and our society as a whole.
Durga Kalyani Musunuri is a clinical psychology graduate student at Columbia University. At APA, she interned with the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Executive Office. As a South Asian woman, Durga shared her perspective and became involved in projects focused on increasing awareness and representation of mental health issues to the public. She hopes to continue her professional and academic pursuits in promoting equity in psychological science and bridge the gap between communities and access to mental health care. In her downtime, she loves to indulge in restorative and meditative self-care activities like painting, reading, yoga, and cooking.
