Should the BBC describe our children with autism as autism sufferers?

Yesterday, an article on the BBC's website praised the efforts of cinemas to hold "autism-friendly" screenings. The headline reads Cinemas help make films accessible for autism sufferers. Making cinemas friendly to all people with sensory issues is a good thing. But, do our children really suffer from autism?  Do we want our children to grow up thinking they suffer because they have autism?


The UK government advises against using the term "suffer" when writing about disability as it suggests "discomfort, constant pain and a sense of hopelessness."  There are children with autism who suffer, but to define everyone with autism as a sufferer implies that they "have a reduced quality of life."  In addition, it ignores the uniqueness, individuality and talents of people on the spectrum. 

Should we call Temple Grandin, Darryl Hannah, Susan Boyle, Dan Ackroyd and James Durbin autism sufferers?  I don't think so. 

What are your thoughts?

©Mary M Conneely T/A Advocacy in Action