Respectful Terminology for Short Stature: "Little People" as Person-First Language

The widely accepted, respectful term for individuals with medical conditions resulting in short stature (e.g., achondroplasia, osteogenesis imperfecta, diastrophic dysplasia, spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita) is "little people" or "people of short stature."

Why Language Matters

• Person-first: Emphasizes humanity over condition ("person with dwarfism" not "dwarf").
• Community preference: Little People of America (LPA) and international organizations endorse "little people."
• Rejects slurs: "Midget" is a historical slur from freak-show era; deeply offensive.
• Avoids medicalization as identity: "Dwarf" is a medical/biological term; some reclaim it, but "little people" is safer in general discourse.

Nuance

• Some individuals prefer condition-specific language ("I have achondroplasia").
• Always follow the person's self-identification.
• In clinical notes: use precise diagnosis (achondroplasia, etc.).

Beyond Terminology

Respect includes: accessible environments, equal employment, medical autonomy, representation, and challenging heightism (discrimination based on stature).