Why Words Matter
The language we use shapes how people feel about themselves and how others understand them. Using positive terminology promotes confidence and inclusion.
Using Positive Language
Focus on the person, not the condition
Instead of defining someone by their condition, place the person first:
✔️ “A child with microtia”
✔️ “A person who is deaf”
❌ “A microtia child”
❌ “The deaf person” (when used as a label rather than description)
Avoid Negative Terms
Some words can feel outdated or carry negative connotations:
❌ “Deformed” → ✔️ “Different in shape” or “smaller ear”
❌ “Defective” → ✔️ “Variation” or “difference”
❌ “Suffers from” → ✔️ “Has” or “lives with”
Respect identity and preference
Some people proudly identify as:
- Deaf
- Hard of hearing
Others may prefer:
- “Hearing difference”
- “Reduced hearing”
There is no single “correct” term. It is always worth asking the person what they prefer when unsure.
Avoid assumptions
Not everyone with microtia:
- Wants surgery
- Uses hearing devices
- Sees themselves as “needing fixing”
Use language that keeps things open and respectful:
- ✔️ “They may use hearing support”
- ✔️ “Some people choose…”
Some examples of positive language in practice could be…
“Can they hear properly?” = “How do they prefer to communicate?”
“That must be difficult.” = “Everyone’s experience is different.”
Talking To Children About Differences
When explaining microtia or deafness to children:
- Keep it simple and factual
- Use neutral or positive language
- Encourage curiosity, not judgement
Example:
“Some people are born with smaller ears, and some people hear differently. Everyone’s body is unique.”
“Children who have microtia atresia have suggested that positive terminology also be used around this condition, particularly where there is an obvious difference to their outer ear/s as a result of microtia.
Words to avoid are; ‘bad ear’, ‘deformed ear’, ‘rubbish ear’, ‘poor ear’. They have suggested that when referring to the microtia to use terms like; ‘small ear/big ear’, ‘this/that ear’, ‘hearing ear’, ‘deaf ear’, etc.” – Taken from BATOD
Creating an Inclusive Environment
You can support positive language by:
- Modelling respectful terminology
- Gently correcting outdated language
- Encouraging questions in a safe way
- Promoting awareness and understanding
To find out more about Positive Terminology from the British Association of Teachers of Deaf Children and Young People, click HERE.