top of page
< Back

Table of Diversity Element: Able-Bodied

The Table of Diversity Element Able-Bodied (Ab) is in the 15th column, Ability, on the Table of Diversity.

"This term is used to describe someone who does not identify as having a disability. Some members of the disability community oppose its use because it implies that all people with disabilities lack 'able bodies' or the ability to use their bodies well. They may prefer 'non-disabled' or 'enabled' as being more accurate.

NCDJ Recommendation: The term 'non-disabled' and the phrases 'does not have a disability' or 'is not living with a disability' are more neutral choices. 'Able-bodied' is an appropriate term to use in some cases, such as when referring to government reports the proportion of able-bodied members in the workforce. In some cases, the word 'typical' can be used to describe a non-disabled condition, although be aware that some in the disability community object to its use."

Source: National Center on Disability and Journalism, https://ncdj.org/style-guide/

Articles to Read

Check out these articles to learn more!

01

Read More

02

Read More

Read More

Read More
Is this helpful?
Not at allNot reallySomewhatIt's helpful!Super helpful!

Articles to Read

bottom of page