Advancing the Use of Person-First and Non-Stigmatizing Language

Words describing substance use disorders (SUD) have a significant impact on those struggling with their disease and how they are treated. For individuals who have criminal justice histories, words that are used to describe their experiences and life events can be critical to their success. Indeed, attention to person-first language is important to the recovery and rehabilitation of those who have lived experience in the justice system.

To advance the broader aims of a healthy and just society, the regular use of language that is nonprejudicial is critical. This document outlines a person first language approach and offers guiding principles and recommendations regarding accurate and nonpejorative terminology.