Allistic/a-LIS-tik/
A neutral term for people who are not autistic.
Andy says:
It’s like “neurotypical vs. neurodivergent,” but specific to autism.
Detailed Explanation
Coined within autistic communities, “allistic” avoids framing autism as the deviation from an unnamed norm. It names the counterpart explicitly and supports balanced language.
Community Context
Used in advocacy, research discussion, and community writing. Not everyone uses it; preferences vary.
Quick Tips
- Use when autism specificity matters (vs. broader ND terms)
- Ask people what language they prefer
Do / Don't
- Do: treat as neutral descriptor
- Don't: use as a slur
Scientific Context
Not a clinical category; a community/identity term.
Language Notes
Related: autistic, neurotypical.
Related Terms
Sources
Community usage of "allistic"
organization
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