selfdefined/11ty/definitions/spaz.md

title	slug	flag	defined	speech	alt_words
Spaz	spaz	text level Ableist Slur avoid	true	noun	hyper anxious jumpy unable to focus

irrationally nervous person; hyperactive

Issues

The origin of the word “Spaz” is a shortened version of “Spastic.” Spastic refers to an alteration in muscle tone affected by the medical condition spasticity, which is seen in spastic diplegia and many other forms of cerebral palsy.

Impact

By using ableist language, we are perpetuating violence against people who experience mental or psychological disabilities. Using this language perpetuates those systems and language of harm, regardless of our intent.

Usage Tip

Be more specific. Typically we can find an alternate definition by taking time to reflect on what emotion we're really feeling.