Self-Description

Self-descriptions are terms that people choose for themselves, their identity, their experiences, or their belonging to a group. In marginalized groups, such terms can be especially important because they allow people to name their own realities rather than being described only from the outside. Examples include labels such as non-binary, trans, intersex, aromantic, asexual, queer, bi+, or disabled.

Self-descriptions often stand in contrast to external labels, meaning terms that are assigned or imposed on people from the outside. A word can be empowering, connecting, or politically intentional as a self-description, but hurtful, demeaning, or appropriative when used as an external label. This is especially true for terms that have historically been used as slurs and are reclaimed by some communities or individuals.

Self-descriptions are not automatically suitable for everyone in a group. One person may reject a term that another person with a similar experience consciously and positively uses for themselves. Respectful use therefore means using the terms, names, and pronouns a person gives for themselves and not imposing labels. If it is unclear which term is appropriate, it is best to ask openly and sensitively or to choose a neutral formulation.