Preferred Terms for Select Population Groups and Communities
Second Chance Month
April 2023
Written
Topic:
Research & Statistics
Preferred Terms for Select Population Groups and Communities

This online tool from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC's) Health Communication Gateway provides preferred nomenclature for select population groups and communities, along with an explanation for the importance of word choice.
The tool lists a number of terms used to describe individuals related to corrections and detention that are not preferred, and provides a helpful list of alternatives that researchers, grantees, and technical assistance providers can use instead.