July 19, 2023

Use of Inclusive Language

Inclusive language acknowledges diversity, respects all individuals, is sensitive to differences, and promotes equality of opportunity.

Content should not make assumptions about the beliefs or commitments of any reader; it should not imply that one individual is superior to another based on age, gender, race, ethnicity, culture, sexual orientation, disability, or health condition; and it should use inclusive language throughout the process.

Authors should ensure their writing is free from bias, stereotypes, slang, references to dominant culture, and/or cultural assumptions. We advise striving for gender neutrality by using plural nouns ("clinicians, patients/clients") as a standard/whenever possible to avoid the use of "he, she," or "he/she." We recommend avoiding descriptors referring to personal attributes such as age, gender, race, ethnicity, culture, sexual orientation, disability, or health condition unless they are relevant and valid.

When using coding terminology, we recommend avoiding offensive or exclusionary terms such as "master," "slave," "blacklist," and "whitelist." Instead, we suggest using more appropriate and self-explanatory alternatives like "primary," "secondary," "blocklist," and "allowlist."

These guidelines serve as a reference point to help identify appropriate language but are by no means exhaustive or definitive. We suggest using more suitable and self-explanatory alternatives like "primary," "secondary," "blocklist," and "allowlist." These guidelines serve as a reference point to help identify appropriate language but are by no means exhaustive or definitive.

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