Bastyr University Library News

Using Inclusive Language with APA

An interesting resource came across my inbox this morning that I thought would be worthwhile sharing. In an effort to build a common vocabulary, APA Style has published Guidelines for Inclusive Language. The guidelines contain both general ones for writing about people without bias across a range of topics and specific guidelines that address the individual characteristics of age, disability, gender, participation in research, racial and ethnic identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and intersectionality. 

If you have the APA Publication Manual, Seventh Edition, bias-free language is covered more extensively in Chapter 5 of that text. Otherwise, to learn more, see the APA Style blog post.  

Personally, I appreciated the General Principles for Reducing Bias section as it helps introduce the topic of encouraging EDI by building an awareness through basic guidelines: 

1. Describe at the appropriate level of specificity - choose words that are accurate, clear, and free from bias or prejudicial connotations. 
   • Focus on relevant characteristics
   • Acknowledge relevant differences that do exist
   • Be appropriately specific
2. Be sensitive to labels - respect the language people use to describe themselves; that is, call people what they call themselves. Be aware that language changes with time and that individuals within groups sometimes disagree about the designations they use. 
   • Acknowledge people's humanity
   • Provide operational definitions and labels
   • Avoid false hierarchies 

Our faculty and researchers who are interested in publishing, may even find the APA Publishing EDI Toolkit interesting--as the topics apply broadly to all who are interested in being more inclusive in their writing regardless of the publication. This toolkit covers topics ranging from:

• inclusive reporting standards: acknowledging author contributions, detailed sample demographic descriptions, justifying sample demographics, disclosing year(s) of data collection, positionality and impact statements; 
• equity and open science: encouraging data sharing, registered reports and reducing publication bias;
• improving representation on editorial boards;
• encouraging diversity in your own journal.

APA has always been really cognizant of providing a variety of examples to follow when teaching new concepts. They continue to do so with these guidelines and toolkits. Check them out when you have some time! If anything, these new resources might give you something new to think about.