Publications

These articles explore how sexuality is experienced by youth with disabilities and how healthcare providers can better support open, inclusive conversations. Topics include access to sexual and reproductive health, common barriers to discussing sexuality, and strategies for creating respectful, rights-based resources and care.

McPherson, AC, Brown, HK, Cox, E, Cobb, H, Esmail, S, Fudge Schormans, A, Giles, M, Kingsnorth, S, Leef, J, Provvidenza, C, Martino, AS, Wood, J. (accepted). We are Sexual Too: A partnership to support the intimate citizenship of disabled youth across Canada. The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality. Primary author.

Brown HK, Toulany A, Sharp I, Fung K, McPherson A, Lunsky Y, Vandermorris A. (in press). Sexual and reproductive health in female adolescents and young adults with disabilities: A population-based study. Journal of Adolescent Health. Coauthor or Collaborator.

Evans M, Rego A, Ogbonna N, Welsh K, Zafar SK, Barker LC, Berndl A, Du Mont J, Lunsky Y, McPherson A, Tarasoff LA, Vandermorris A, Brown HK. (2025). Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to sexual and reproductive health services for women and transgender people with disabilities in Canada: a qualitative study. Sexual and Reproductive Health Matters, 32(1), 2441027. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/26410397.2024.2441027  Coauthor or Collaborator.

Giles, ML, Juando-Prats, C, McPherson, AC, Gesink, D. (2023). “But, you’re in a wheelchair!”: A systematic review exploring the sexuality of youth with physical disabilities. Sexuality and Disability, 41(1), 141-171 (early online 27 November 2022). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11195-022-09769-5 Coauthor or Collaborator. 

Lung, S, Wincentak, J, Gan, C, Kingsnorth, S, Provvidenza, C, McPherson, AC. (2022). A scoping review of suggested practices for healthcare providers when discussing sexuality with youth. Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality, 31(1), 143-160. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3138/cjhs.2021-0058 Senior Responsible Author.

Lung, S, Wincentak, J, Gan, C, Kingsnorth,S, Provvidenza, C, McPherson, AC. (2021). Are healthcare providers and young people talking about sexuality? A scoping review to characterize conversations and identify barriers. Child: Care, Health & Development, 47(6), 744-757 (early online 8 July). DOI: 10.1111/cch.12892  Senior Responsible Author. [Supervisor] 

Bonder, R, Wincentak, J, Gan, C, Kingsnorth, S, Provvidenza, C, McPherson, AC. (2021). “They assume that you’re not having sex”: A qualitative exploration of how healthcare providers can have positive sexuality-related conversations with youth with disabilities. Sexuality & Disability, 39(3), 579-594 (early online 15 April). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11195-021-09686-zSenior Responsible Author

Heller, M, Gambino, S, Church, P, Lindsay, S, Kaufman, M, McPherson, AC. (2016). Sexuality and relationships in young people with spina bifida and their partners. Journal of Adolescent Health, 59(2), 182–188 (early online 21 May 2016). DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2016.03.037 Senior Responsible Author. [Supervisor]

These articles examine how mental health and disordered eating are experienced by youth with disabilities, and how their needs can be better supported in healthcare settings. Areas of focus include communication best practices, integrated models of care, and the unique experiences of youth with complex conditions like spina bifida and hydrocephalus. 

Bonder, R, Beaudoin, S, Chen, L, Church, P, Hooper, M, Thorne, M, Toulany, A, McPherson, AC. (2025). Exploring the extent and nature of disordered eating among Canadian adolescents and young adults with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Child: Care, Health & Development, 51(2), e70046. Senior Responsible Author.

Bonder, R, Walker, M, Toulany, A, McPherson, AC. (accepted). What is known about eating disorders and disordered eating in individuals with physical disabilities? A Narrative Review. Child: Care, Health and Development. Senior Responsible Author.

Bonder, R, Yonadam, A, Snider, A, Kassam-Lallani, D, McPherson, AC. (2022). Communicating about mental health with youth and their families: A scoping review of best practices and implications for youth with disabilities. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 25(3), 178-185 (early online 8 August 2021). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/17518423.2021.1960921 Senior Responsible Author.

Scratch, S, Stevens, SA, King, G, Schwellnus, H, Searl, N, McPherson, AC. (2019). Mental health care in paediatric rehabilitation hospitals: A biopsychosocial, collaborative, and agency-based service integration approach. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 23(6), 359-367 (early online 5 Dec). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2019.1687600 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Biddiss, E, Knibbe, TJ, McPherson, AC. (2014). The effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing anxiety in healthcare waiting spaces: a systematic review of randomized and non-randomized trials. Anesthesia & Analgesia, 119(2), 433-448. DOI: 10.1213/ANE.0000000000000294 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC & Jones, RG. (2003). The use of Section 2&3 of the Mental Health Act (1983) with older people: a prospective study. Aging & Mental Health, 7(2), 153-157. DOI: 10.1080/1360786031000072330 Coauthor or Collaborator.

These papers describe evaluations of solution-focused coaching for paediatric rehabilitation (SFC-peds), a goal-oriented approach that helps individuals identify and build upon their existing strengths and resources for positive change.

Penuela, L, King, G, Labbé, A, Lui, T, Maltai, DB, Mérette, C, Moffet, H, McPherson, AC. (in press). Children and Teens in Charge of their Health (CATCH): A feasibility randomised controlled trial of solution-focused coaching to foster healthy lifestyles in children with spina bifida or cerebral palsy. Disability and Rehabilitation. Senior Responsible Author.

Hull, K, Ippolito, C, Frydman, D, McPherson, AC, McAdam, L. (2025). Evaluation of virtual solution-focused coaching-peds (SFC-peds) with youth with neuromuscular conditions: A randomized trial of delivery intensities. Developmental Neurorehabilitation (early online 8 June 2025). Co-author or Collaboraor.

Walker, M, King, G, Lui, T, Moothathamby, N, McPherson, AC. (2024). Utilizing an Environmental Framework to explore the acceptability of a health promotion program for youth with disabilities. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 27 (1), 1-7 (early online 17 April). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/17518423.2024.2340454Senior responsible author.

McPherson, AC, Biddiss, E, Chen, L, Terrien Church, P, de Groot, JF, Keenan, S, King, GA, Lui, T, Maltas, D, Merette, C, Moffet, H, Moola, FJ, Schwellnus, H. (2019). Children and Teens in Charge of their Health (CATCH): A protocol for a feasibility randomized controlled trial of solution-focused coaching to foster healthy lifestyles in childhood disability. BMJ Open, 9(3), e025119. DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-025119 Principal Author.

McPherson, AC, McAdam, L, Keenan, S, Schwellnus, H, Biddiss, E, DeFinney, A, English, K. (2018). A feasibility study using solution-focused coaching for health promotion in children and young people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 21(2), 121-130 (early online 8 March 2017). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2017.1289271 Primary author

This stream of research focuses on how youth with disabilities build independence, confidence, and social connection through life skills programs, inclusive recreation, and coaching interventions. It includes long-term studies of residential immersive life skills programs and explores how youth, families, and providers experience and understand personal growth, emotional development, and social inclusion. 

McPherson, AC, Walker, M, Lamptey, D, Kingsnorth, S, King, G. (2024). Parental expectations of residential immersive life skills programs for youth with disabilities and their perception of youth changes. Disability and Rehabilitation (early online 11 November). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2024.2426688Primary author

King, G, Kingsnorth, S, McPherson, AC, Tajik-Parvinchi, DJ. (2024). Autonomy, Self-realization, and Psychological Empowerment: A Prospective Mixed Methods Study of the Effects of Residential Immersive Life Skills Programs for Youth with Physical Disabilities. Disability and Rehabilitation, 46(14), 3097-3107 (early online 17 August 2023). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2243222 Co-author or Collaborator.

King, G, McPherson, AC, Kingsnorth, K, Gorter, JW. (2022). The transformative nature of residential immersive life skills programs: Integrating findings from a five-year prospective study of program opportunities, youth experiences, and outcomes. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(23), 15865. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192315865Coauthor or Collaborator.

King, G, Hartman, LR, McPherson, AC, De Finney, A, Kehl, B, Rudzik, A, Morrison, A. (2022). Exploring the after-hours social experiences of youth with disabilities in residential immersive life skills programs: A photo elicitation study. Disability & Rehabilitation 44(13), 3104-3112 (early online 10 December 2021). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1855262 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Edwards, B, Cameron, D, King, G, McPherson, AC. (2022). The potential impact of experiencing social inclusion in recreation for children with and without disabilities. Disability and Rehabilitation, 44(14), 3469-3478 (early online 6 January 2021). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1865465 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Edwards, B, Cameron, D, King, G, McPherson, AC. (2021). Exploring the shared meaning of social inclusion to children with and without disabilities. Physical & Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics, 41(5), 467-484 (early online 16 February). DOI: 10.1080/01942638.2021.1881198 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Duff, C,McPherson, AC, King, G. (2020). Residential Immersive Life Skills programs: a catalyst for facilitating emotional literacy development for youth with disabilities. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 23(5), 294-301 (early online 26 August). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2019.1657198 Co- Senior Responsible Author.

Duff, C, McPherson, AC, King, G, Kingsnorth, S. (2020). Deconstructing the pedagogy of Residential Immersive Life Skills programs: mechanisms that can facilitate learning for youth with disabilities. Journal of Research in Special Educational Needs, 20(2), 121-129 (early online 5 August 2019). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-3802.12470Co-Senior Responsible Author.

King, G, McPherson, AC, Kingsnorth, S, Gorter, JW, Avery, L; Rudzik, A. (2020). Opportunities, experiences, and outcomes of residential immersive life skills programs for youth with disabilities. Disability and Rehabilitation, 43(19), 2758-2768 (early online 29 January 2020). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2020.1716864Coauthor or Collaborator.

Duff, C, King, GA, McPherson, AC, Kingsnorth, S, Rudzik, AE. (2019). Residential Immersive Life skills programs for youth with disabilities: Experiences of parents and shifts in parenting approaches. Journal of Adolescence, 77, 139-146 (early online 9 Nov). DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2019.10.015 Co-Senior Responsible Author.

Kingsnorth, S, Rudzik, AEF, King, G, McPherson, AC. (2019). Residential immersive life skills programs for youth with disabilities: A case study of youth developmental trajectories of personal growth and caregiver perspectives. BMC Pediatrics, 19(1), 413. DOI: 10.1186/s12887-019-1793-z Coauthor or Collaborator.

Edwards, BM, Cameron, D, King, G, McPherson, AC. (2019). Contextual strategies to support social inclusion for children with and without disabilities in recreation. Disability and Rehabilitation, 43(11), 1615-1625 (early online 12 October). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2019.1668972Coauthor or Collaborator. 

Edwards, B, Cameron, D, King, G & McPherson, AC. (2019). How students without special needs perceive social inclusion of children with physical impairments in mainstream schools: A scoping review. International Journal of Disability, Development and Education, 66(3), 298-324 (early online 12 March). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1034912X.2019.1585523Coauthor or Collaborator.

King, GA, McPherson, AC, Mosleh, D, Hartman, L, Rapley, J, Pinto, M. (2018). Program opportunities of residential immersive life skills programs for youth with disabilities. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 83(1), 233-246. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2018.09.003 Coauthor or Collaborator. Coauthor or Collaborator.

King, GA, McPherson, AC, Kingsnorth, S, Gorter, JW, DeFinney, A. (2018). Intervention strategies in residential immersive life skills programs for youth with disabilities: a study of active ingredients and program fidelity. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 22(5), 303-311 (early online 01 Aug 2018). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2018.1497722 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, Rudzik, A, Kingsnorth, S, King, G, Gorter, JW, Morrison, A. (2018). “Ready to take on the world”: Experiences and understandings of independence after attending residential immersive life skills programs for youth with physical disabilities. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 21(2), 73-82 (early online 22 March 2016). DOI: 10.3109/17518423.2016.1141254 Principal Author.

Hartman, L, McPherson, AC, Maxwell, J, Lindsay, S. (2018). Exploring the ICF-CY as a Framework to Inform Transition Programs from Paediatric to Adult Health Care. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 21(5), 312-325 (early online 23 May 2017). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2017.1323969 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, King, G, Rudzik, A, Kingsnorth, S, Gorter, JW and the Ontario Independence Program Research (OIPR) team. (2016). Optimizing life success through residential immersive life skills programs for youth with disabilities: Study protocol of a mixed-methods, prospective, comparative cohort study. BMC Pediatrics, 16, 153. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12887-016-0694-7 Principal Author.

King, G, Kingsnorth, S, McPherson, AC, Jones-Galley, K, Pinto, M, Fellin, M, Timbrell, N^, Savage, D. (2016). Residential immersive life skills programs for youth with physical disabilities: A pilot study of program opportunities, provider strategies, and youth experiences. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 55(1), 242–255. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2016.04.014 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Fischer, N, Church, P, Lyons, J, McPherson, AC. (2015). A qualitative exploration of the experiences of children with spina bifida and their parents around incontinence and social participation. Child: Care, Health and Development, 41(6), 954–962 (Early online 23 May 2015). DOI: 10.1111/cch.12257 Senior Responsible Author. 

King, G, McPherson, AC, Kingsnorth, S, Stewart, D, Glencross-Eimantas, T, Jones-Galley, K, Morrison, A, Isihi, AM, Gorter, JW. (2015). Residential immersive life skills programs for youth with disabilities: Service providers' perceptions of change processes. Disability and Rehabilitation, 37(11), 971-80 (early online 1 May). DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2014.949353 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Kingsnorth, S, King, G, McPherson, AC, Jones-Galley, K. (2015). A retrospective study of past graduates of a residential life skills program for youth with physical disabilities. Child: Care, Health and Development, 41(3), 374-383. (early online 23 Sep 2014). DOI: 10.1111/cch.12196 Coauthor or Collaborator.

King, G, McPherson, AC, Kingsnorth, S, Stewart, D, Glencross-Eimantas, T, Gorter, JW, Jones-Galley, K, Morrison, A, Isihi, AM. (2014). Residential immersive life skills programs for youth with disabilities: Service providers’ perceptions of experiential benefits and key program features. Disability and Rehabilitation, 37(11), 971-980 (early Online 19 August 2014). DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2014.949353 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Keenan, S, King, G, Curran, CJ, McPherson, AC. (2014). Effectiveness of an experiential life skills intervention for youth with a disability. Physical and Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics, 34(2), 119-131. DOI: 10.3109/01942638.2013.842200 Senior Responsible Author. 

King, G, Curran, CJ, McPherson, AC. (2013). A four-part ecological model of community-focused therapeutic recreation and life skills services to support the participation of children with disabilities. Child: Care, Health & Development, 39(3), 325-336. DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2214.2012.01390.x Coauthor or Collaborator.

Lindsay, S, McPherson, AC, Aslam, H, McKeever, P, Wright, V. (2012). Exploring children’s perceptions of two school-based social inclusion programs: A pilot. Child and Youth Care Forum, 42(1), 1-18. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10566-012-9183-9 Coauthor or Collaborator.

This research explores the lived experiences of youth with disabilities and their families across healthcare, rehabilitation, and transition settings. Projects highlight family engagement in research, parenting approaches, and the emotional and practical realities of navigating systems. It also includes studies on how families and youth experience co-designed programs.

Provvidenza, C., Tanel, N., Ho, C., Jorisch, S., Comito, M., McPherson, A., Chau, T., Hickling, A., Mallory, K., & Scratch, S. on behalf of the Research Family Engagement Committee. (2025). Engaging Families, Enhancing Research: Optimizing Rehabilitation Research through Co-creation of a Family Engagement in Research Framework. Disability & Rehabilitation (early online 25 March 2025). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2025.2479657. Coauthor or Collaborator.

Rowland, E, Knibbe, TJ, English, K, Lindsay, S, McPherson, AC. (2022). “Oh I try, but it’s so hard”: Parental experiences of health promotion in children with disabilities. Disability & Rehabilitation, 44(18), 5133-5140 (early online 5 July 2021). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.1925977 Senior Responsible Author. 

Marston, E, Cho, CC, Pridham, K, McPherson, AC, Polfuss, M. (2022). Parenting styles and dimensions in parents of children with developmental disabilities. Research in Nursing & Health, 45(5), 592-603 (early online 12 September). DOI: 10.1002/nur.22250 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Posa, S, Moola, FJ, McPherson, AC, Kontos, P. (2021). Exploring illness identity among children and youth living with cancer: A narrative review. Pediatric Blood and Cancer, 68(11), e29251. DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29251 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Ballantyne, M, Bernardo, S, Sozer, A, Orava, T, McPherson, AC, Church, P, Fehlings, D. (2018). A whole new world: A qualitative investigation of parents’ experiences in transitioning their preterm child with cerebral palsy to developmental/rehabilitation services. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 22(2), 87-97 (early online 12 Mar 2018). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2018.1434698 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Ballantyne, M, Orava, T, Bernardo, S, McPherson, AC, Church, P, Fehlings, D. (2017). Parents’ early healthcare transition experiences with preterm and acutely ill infants: A scoping review. Child: Care, Health and Development, 43(6), 783-796 (early online 30 March 2017). DOI: 10.1111/cch.12458 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Shen, QA, Doyle-Thomas, KAR, Beesley, L, Karmali, A, Williams, L, Tanel, N, McPherson, AC. (2016). How and why should we engage parents as co-researchers in health research? A scoping review of current practices. Health Expectations, 20(4), 543-554. (early online 12 August 2016). DOI: 10.1111/hex.12490 Senior Responsible Author. [Supervisor]

Lindsay, S, Fellin, M, Cruickshank, H, McPherson, AC, Maxwell, J. (2016). Youth and parents’ experiences of a new inter-agency transition model for spina bifida compared to youth who did not take part in the model. Disability and Health Journal, 9(4), 705-712. (early online 27 May 2016). DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2016.05.009 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Lindsay, S, McPherson, AC, Maxwell, J. (2016). Perspectives of school-work transitions among youth with spina bifida, their parents, and health care providers. Disability and Rehabilitation, 39(7), 641-652 (early online 17 March 2016). DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2016.1153161 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Wells, F, Ritchie, D, McPherson, AC. (2013). "It is life threatening, but I don’t mind”. A qualitative study using photo elicitation Interviews to explore young people’s experiences of renal replacement therapies. Child: Care, Health & Development, 39(4), 602–612. DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2214.2012.01399.x Senior Responsible Author. [Supervisor]

Lindsay, S & McPherson, AC. (2011). Strategies for improving disability awareness and social inclusion: Listening to the voices of children with cerebral palsy. Child: Care, Health & Development, 38(6), 809-816. DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2214.2011.01308.x Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC & Lindsay, S. (2012). How do children with disabilities view ‘healthy living’? A pilot study. Disability & Health Journal, 5(3), 201-209. DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2012.04.004 Principal Author.

Lindsay, SL & McPherson, AC. (2011). Experiences of social exclusion and bullying at school among children and youth with cerebral palsy. Disability & Rehabilitation, 34(2), 101-109. DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2011.587086 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Our research in this area focuses on how children, families, and clinicians engage in conversations about weight, health, and feeding, especially in the context of disability. Projects span guideline development, qualitative inquiry, and resource creation to support sensitive, inclusive care. 

Ball GDC, Merdad R, Birken CS, Cohen TR, Goodman B, Hadjiyannakis S, Hamilton J, Henderson M, Lammey J, Morrison KM, Moore SA, Mushquash AR, Patton I, Pearce N, Ramjist JK, Rhyason Lebel T, Timmons B, Buchholz A, Cantwell J, Cooper J, Erdstein J, Fitzpatrick-Lewis D, Hatanaka D, Lindsay P, Sajwani T, Sebastianski M, Sherifali D, St. Pierre J, Ali MU, Wijesundera J, Alberga AS, Ausman C, Baluyot TC, Burke E, Dadgostar K, Delacruz B, Dettmer E, Dymarski M, Esmaeilinezhad Z, Hale I, Harnois-Leblanc S, Ho J, Gehring ND, Kucera M, Langer JC, McPherson AC, Naji L, Oei K, O’Malley G, Rigsby AM, Wahi G, Zenlea IS, Johnston BC. (2025). Managing obesity in children: a clinical practice guideline. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 197: E372-89 doi: 10.1503/cmaj.241456. Coauthor or Collaborator.

Giles, M, Ball, GDC, Bonder, R, Buchholz, A, Gorter, JW, Morrison, K, Perez, A, Walker, M, McPherson, AC. (2024). Exploring the complexities of weight management care for children with spina bifida: A qualitative study with children and parents. Disability and Rehabilitation, 46(15), 3440-3448 (early online 4 September 2023). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2251878 Senior Responsible Author

Provvidenza, C, Bonder, R, McPherson, AC. (2024). Putting weight-related conversations into practice: Lessons learned from implementing a Knowledge Translation Casebook in a disability context. Child: Care, Health & Development, 50 (3), e13257 (early online 8 April). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/cch.13257Senior responsible author.

Bonder, R, Ball, GDC, Buchholz, A, Giles, M, Morrison, K, McPherson, AC. (2024). Weight management for children with disabilities: Exploring the perspectives of health care professionals working in pediatric weight management clinics in Canada. Childhood Obesity, 20(4),254-261 (early online 22 June 2023). DOI: 10.1089/chi.2023.0049 Senior Responsible Author. 

Tenedero, CB, O’Brien, K, Patel, B, Strom, M, Chu, L, Jayawardena, S, Noseworthy, R, McPherson, AC, Walsh, CM, Hamilton, JK. (2023). Medical students’ perceived comfort and competence performing physical examinations on patients with obesity: A mixed-methods needs assessment. Clinical Obesity, e12617 (early online 9 August). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/cob.12617Coauthor or Collaborator.

Walker, M, Amin, R, McAdam, L, Lui, T, McPherson, AC. (2023). “Our time is precious”: An exploration of parental feeding behaviours for boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Child: Care, Health & Development, 49(2), 366-372 (early online 26 August 2022). DOI: 10.1111/cch.13054 Senior Responsible Author.

Gehring ND, Birken CS, Belanger S, Bridger T, Chanoine JP, Gibson WT, Hadjiyannakis S, Haines J, Hamilton J, Haqq A, Henderson M, Ho J, Irvine B, Legault L, Luca P, Maguire J, McPherson A, Morrison K, Wahi G, Weksberg R, Zwaigenbaum L, Ball GDC. (2022). Severe obesity and global developmental delay in preschool children: findings from a Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program study. Paediatrics & Child Health, 28(2), 107-112. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/pch/pxac109 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, Perez, A, Buchholz, A, Forhan, M, Ball, GDC. (2022). “It’s not a simple answer”. A qualitative study to explore how healthcare providers can best support families with a child with autism spectrum disorder and overweight or obesity. Disability & Rehabilitation, 44(14), 3540-3546 (early online 5 January 2021). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1867909 Principal Author.

Walker, M, Mistry, B, Amin, R, McAdam, L, Kalnins, D, Lui, T, McPherson, AC. (2022). A qualitative exploration of the priorities and experiences of children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, their parents and healthcare professionals around weight management. Disability & Rehabilitation, 44(26), 8234-8242 (early online 10 Dec 2021). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.2008528 Senior Responsible Author.

Patel, BP, Hadjiyannakis, S, Clark, L, Buchholz, A, Noseworthy, R, Bernard-Genest, J, Walsh, CM, McPherson, AC, Strub, J, Strom, M, Hamilton, JK. (2021). Evaluation of a pediatric obesity management toolkit for health care professionals: A Quasi-experimental study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(14), 7568. DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147568 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Polfuss, M, Marston, E, Pridham, K, Brown, R, McPherson, AC. (2021). The relationship between stress and feeding behaviors in parents of children with developmental disabilities. Childhood Obesity, 17(7), 457-466 (early online 18 May). DOI: 10.1089/chi.2020.0356 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Redsell, S, Bains, KK, Le Brocq, S, Bucks, RS, Byrne-Davis, L, Gray, L, Hotham, S, Hennessy, M, Kyle, T, McPherson, AC, Quigley, F, Vicari, M, Renea Zinn, S. (2021). Concerns regarding “Association between intelligence quotient and obesity in England” and unjustifiable harm to people in bigger bodies. Lifestyle Medicine, 2(1): e28 (early online 26 February). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/lim2.28 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, Chen, L, O’Neil, J, Vanderbom, K. (2020). Nutrition, metabolic syndrome, and obesity: Guidelines for the care of people with spina bifida. Journal of Paediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, 13(4), 637-653. DOI: 10.3233/PRM-200753 Principal Author.

Klupt, KA, Oreskovich, SM, Bernard-Genest, J, Chu, L, Dettmer, E, Walsh, CM, Strom, M, McPherson, AC, Strub, J, Steinberg, A, Steinegger, C, Hamilton, J. (2020). Careful conversations: An educational video to support parents in communicating about weight with their children. BMC Pediatrics, 20, 397. DOI: 10.1186/s12887-020-02284-6 Coauthor or Collaborator.

MacTavish, K,Cistrone, A, Kingsnorth, S, McPherson, AC. (2020). Communication tools used in childhood obesity discussions: A scoping review. Child: Care, Health and Development, 46(6), 651-666 (early online 26 August). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/cch.12800Senior Responsible Author. [Supervisor] 

Bernard-Genest, J, Chu, L, Dettmer, E, Walsh, C, McPherson, AC, Strub, J, Steinberg, A, Steinegger, C, Hamilton, J. (2020). Talking about weight with families - helping health care professionals start the conversation: A non-randomized controlled trial. Clinical Pediatrics, 59(9-10), 910-917 (early online 30 May). DOI: 10.1177/0009922820922844 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, Oake, M, Stinson, J. (2020). “Don’t sweat it buddy, it’s OK”: An exploration of the needs of adolescents with disabilities when designing a mobile application for weight management and healthy lifestyles. Disability and Rehabilitation, 42(1), 1569-1577 (early online 28 January). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2018.1530804 Principal Author.

McPherson, AC, Amin, R, McAdam, L, Kalnins, D, Lui, T. (2020). Growth assessment and weight management in paediatric neuromuscular clinics: A cross-sectional survey across Canada. Disability and Rehabilitation, 43(21), 3015-3020 (early online 14 February). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2020.1725155Principal Author. 

Bonder, R, Provvidenza, C, Hubley, D, McPherson, AC. (2020). Putting Positive Weight-Related Conversations into Practice: The pilot implementation of a knowledge translation casebook. Child: Care, Health and Development, 46(3), 360-368 (early online 21 February). DOI: 10.1111/cch.12762 Senior Responsible Author.

Walker, M & McPherson, AC. (2020). Weight management services for an underserved population: A rapid review of the literature. Disability and Rehabilitation, 42(2), 274-282 (early online 9 October 2018). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2018.1497713 Senior Responsible Author. [Supervisor]

Walker, M, Nixon, S, Haines, J, McPherson, AC. (2020). "I work out, who cares if I’m bigger”: What matters to youth with ASD regarding weight and their bodies? Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 23(1), 31-38 (early online 5 November 2019). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/17518423.2019.1687596Senior Responsible Author. 

Walker, M, Nixon, S, Haines, J, McPherson, AC. (2019), Examining risk factors for overweight and obesity in children with disabilities: A Commentary on Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Framework. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 22(5), 359-364 (early online 11 October 2018). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2018.1523241 Senior Responsible Author. 

Jachyra, P, Anagnostou, E, Petta, C, Cosgrove, S, Chen, L, Capano, L,  Moltisanti, L, Knibbe, TJ, McPherson, AC. (2019). “Girls don’t have big tummies”: The experiences of weight-related discussions for children with autism spectrum disorder. Autism, 23(5), 1096-1105 (early online 24 September 2018). DOI: 10.1177/1362361318793020 Senior Responsible Author. [Mentor]

Provvidenza, C, Hartman, L, McPherson, AC. (2018). Fostering positive weight-related conversations between healthcare professionals, children and families: Development of a knowledge translation casebook and evaluation protocol. Child: Care, Health and Development, 45(1), 138-145 (early online 26 November). DOI: 10.1111/cch.12627 Senior Responsible Author. 

Ball GDC, Birken C, Belanger S, Bridger T, Chanoine JP, Gehring ND, Gibson W, Hadjiyannakis S, Haines J, Hamilton J, Haqq A, Ho J, Irvine B, Legault L, Luca P, Maguire J, McPherson AC, Morrison K, Wahi G, Weksberg R, Zwaigenbaum, L. (2018). Severe obesity and global developmental delay in preschool children. Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program. Available online at: www.cpsp.cps.ca/publications/resource-articles. Coauthor or Collaborator.

Jachyra, P, Anagnostou, E, Petta, C, Cosgrove, S, Chen, L, Capano, L,  Moltisanti, L, Knibbe, TJ, McPherson, AC.  (2018). Weighty conversations: Caregivers', children's, and clinicians' perspectives and experiences of discussing weight-related topics in healthcare consultations. Autism Research, 11(11), 1500-1510 (early online 1 October). DOI: 10.1002/aur.2017 Senior Responsible Author. 

McPherson, AC, Knibbe, TJ, Peters, M, Swift, JA, Browne, N, Ball, GDC, Hamilton, J. (2018). Fat is really a four-letter word: Exploring weight-related communication best practices in children with and without disabilities and their caregivers. Child: Care, Health and Development, 44(4), 636-643 (early online 15 May 2018). DOI: 10.1111/cch.12575 Principal Author. 

Rivera, J, McPherson, AC, Hamilton, J, Birken, C, Coons, M, Peters, M, Iyer, S, George, T, Nguyen, C, Stinson, J. (2018). User-centred design of a mobile app for weight and health management in adolescents with complex health needs: Qualitative study. JMIR Formative Research, 2(1), e7.DOI: 10.2196/formative.8248 Co-Senior Responsible Author. 

Team ABC3. (2017). The Team to Address Bariatric Care in Canadian Children (Team ABC3): Team Grant Study Protocol. BMC Research Notes, 10(1): 301. DOI: 10.1186/s13104-017-2506-z Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, Swift, JA, Peters, M, Lyons, J, Knibbe, TJ, Church, P, Chen, L, Farrell, R, Gorter, JW. (2017). Communicating about obesity and weight-related topics with children with a physical disability and their families: spina bifida as an example. Disability and Rehabilitation, 39(8), 791-797 (early online 25 March 2016). DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2016.1161845 Principal Author.

McPherson, AC, Hamilton, J, Kingsnorth, S, Knibbe, TJ, Peters, M, Swift, JA, Krog, K, Chen, L, Steinberg, A, Ball, GDC. (2017). Communicating with children and families about obesity and weight-related topics: A scoping review of best practices. Obesity Reviews, 18(2), 164-182 (early online 26 Nov 2016). DOI: 10.1111/obr.12485 Principal Author.

Rivera, J, McPherson, AC, Hamilton, J, Birken, C, Coons, M, Iyer, S, Agarwal, A, Lalloo, C, Stinson, J. (2016). Mobile applications for weight management: A scoping review. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 4(3), e87. DOI: 10.2196/mhealth.5115 Co-Senior Responsible Author.

McPherson, AC, Ball, GDC, Maltais, DB, Swift, JA, Cairney, J, Knibbe, TJ, Krog, K. (2016). A call to action: Setting the research agenda for addressing weight-related topics in children with physical disabilities. Childhood Obesity, 12(1), 59-69 (early online 30 Dec 2015). DOI: 10.1089/chi.2015.0119 Principal Author.

McPherson, AC, Leo, J, Lyons, J, Church, P, Chen, L, Swift, JA. (2014). An environmental scan of weight assessment and management practices in paediatric spina bifida clinics across Canada. Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, 7(3), 207-17. DOI: 10.3233/PRM-140290 Principal Author.

McPherson, AC, Keith, R, Swift, JA. (2014). Obesity prevention for children with physical disabilities: a scoping review of physical activity and nutrition interventions. Disability and Rehabilitation, 36(19), 1573-87. DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2013.863391. Principal Author. [Supervisor]

Patton, I & McPherson, AC. (2013). Anthropometric measurements in Canadian children: A scoping review. Canadian Journal of Public Health, 104(5), e369-e374. DOI: 10.17269/cjph.104.4032 Senior Responsible Author. [Supervisor]

McPherson, AC, Swift, JA, Yung, E, Lyons, J, Church, P. (2013). The assessment of weight status in children and young people attending a spina bifida outpatient clinic: a retrospective medical record review. Disability and Rehabilitation, 35(25), 2123-2131. DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2013.771705 Principal Author.

This research explores the factors influencing wellness and physical activity participation among children and youth with disabilities. Using qualitative and mixed methods, projects focused on health promotion programs, inclusive physical activity, social supports, and environmental influences to improve well-being and engagement.

O’Rourke, R, Knibbe, T, McPherson, AC, Faulkner, G, Wright, V, Arbour-Nicitopoulos, KP (in press). Developing disability inclusive coaching principles within community recreational sport programming for children. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Plus, 6, 100109. Coauthor or Collaborator.

Hamdani, Y, Bonder, R, McPherson, AC. (2023). Wellness in children’s rehabilitation- what does it mean? Disability & Rehabilitation, 45(25), 4236-4244 (early online 28 November 2022). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2148295 Senior Responsible Author.

Lumia, C, Arbour-Nicitopoulos, K, Moola, F, McPherson, AC. (2022). Using photo-elicitation to explore health promotion concepts with children and adolescents with disabilities: a rapid scoping review. Disability and Rehabilitation, 44(19), 5708-5718 (early online 6 July 2021). DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.1945690 Senior Responsible Author. [Supervisor] 

Moola, FJ, Moothathamby, N, Naganathan, M, Curran, CJ, Yarichuk, D & McPherson, AC. (2020). A scoping review of music therapy in the lives of children and youth with disabilities and chronic conditions in non-acute medical and community-based settings. Canadian Journal of Art Therapy: Research, Practice, and Issues, 33(1), 17-28. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/26907240.2020.1753461 Senior Responsible Author. 

Volfson, Z, McPherson, AC, Tomasone, J, Faulkner, G & Arbour-Nicitopoulos, KP. (2020). Examining factors of physical activity participation in youth with spina bifida using the Theoretical Domains Framework. Disability and Health Journal, 13(4), 100922 (early online 8 April). DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2020.100922 Coauthor or Collaborator. 

Orr, K, Grassman, V, Arbour-Nicitopoulos, K, McPherson, AC, Faulkner, G, Wright, FV. (2021). Children and youth with impairments in social skills and cognition in out-of-school time inclusive physical activity programs: A scoping review. International Journal of Developmental Disabilities, 67(2), 79-93 (early online 28 May 2019). DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2019.1603731 Coauthor or Collaborator. 

Campos, C, Duck, M, McQuillan, R, Brazill, L, Malik, S, Hartman, L, McPherson, AC, Gibson, B.E, & Jachyra, P. (2019). Exploring the role of physiotherapists in the care of children with autism spectrum disorder. Physical & Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics, 39(6), 614-628 (early online 8 April). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/01942638.2019.1585405Coauthor or Collaborator.

Hamdani, Y, Yee, T, Oake, M, McPherson, AC. (2019). Multi-stakeholder perspectives on perceived wellness of Special Olympics athletes. Disability and Health Journal, 12(3), 422-430 (early online 1 February). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dhjo.2019.01.009Senior Responsible Author. 

Hamdani, S, Yee, T, Rowland, E, McPherson, AC. (2018). Examining wellness in children and youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities: A scoping review. Current Developmental Disorders Reports, 5 (3), 165-196 (early online 11 July 2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40474-018-0146-1Senior Responsible author 

Arbour-Nicitopoulos, KP, Grassmann, V, Orr, K, McPherson, AC, Faulkner, GE, Wright, FW. (2018). A scoping review of inclusive out-of-school time physical activity programs for children and youth with physical disabilities. Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly, 35(1), 111-138. DOI: 10.1123/apaq.2017-0012 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Knibbe, TJ, McPherson, AC, Gladstone, B, Biddiss, E. (2018). “It’s all about incentive”: Social technology as a potential facilitator for self-determined physical activity participation for young people with physical disabilities. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 21(8), 521-530 (Early online 29 Sep 2017). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2017.1370501 Co- Senior Responsible Author. [Co- Supervisor]

Knibbe, TJ, Biddiss, E, Gladstone, B, McPherson, AC. (2017). Characterizing socially supportive environments relating to physical activity participation for young people with physical disabilities. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 20(5), 294-300 (Early online 11 August 2016). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2016.1211190 Co- Senior Responsible Author. [Co- Supervisor]

McPherson, AC & Redsell, SA. (2009). Factors affecting children's involvement in asthma consultations: a questionnaire survey of general practitioners and primary care asthma nurses. Primary Care Respiratory Journal, 18(1), 15-20. DOI: 10.3132/pcrj.2008.00040 Principal Author.

Glazebrook, C, McPherson, AC, Macdonald, IA, Swift, JA, Ramsay, C, Newbould, R. & Smyth, A. (2006). Asthma as a barrier to children's physical activity: implications for body mass index and mental health. Pediatrics, 118(6), 2443-2449. DOI: 10.1542/peds.2006-1846 Coauthor or Collaborator.

These articles explore how digital tools and environments such as social media, interactive media, and online platforms can support the health, engagement, and well-being of children and youth with disabilities. Projects focus on digital inclusion, connection, communication, and positive distraction in paediatric healthcare settings. 

Cate-Carter, T, Schnurr, K, Stinson, J, McPherson, AC. (2019). Connected for health: Examining the use of a health-related social media platform for children with chronic medical conditions. Child: Care, Health and Development, 45(4), 585-591 (early online 26 April). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/cch.12678Senior Responsible Author. 

Biddiss, E, Knibbe, TJ, Fehlings, D, McKeever, P, McPherson, AC. (2018). Positive distraction in paediatric healthcare waiting spaces: Sharing play, not germs through inclusive, hands-free interactive media. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 22(7), 445-452 (early online 20 September). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2018.1518351 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Koller, D, McPherson, AC, Lockwood, I, Moraes, S, Nolan, J. (2018). The Impact of Snoezelen in Pediatric Complex Continuing Care: A Pilot Study. Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, 11(1), 31-41. DOI: 10.3233/PRM-150373 Coauthor or Collaborator. 

Biddiss, E, Knibbe, TJ, Fehlings, D, McKeever, P, Cohen, A, McPherson, AC (2018). Interactive media as a tool for reducing waiting anxiety at pediatric rehabilitation hospitals: A randomized controlled trial. Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, 60(6), 602-610 (Early online 15 December 2017). DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.13646 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Ahola Kohut, S, LeBlanc, C, O’Leary, K, McPherson, AC, McCarthy, E, Nguyen, C, Stinson, J. (2018). The Internet as a source of support for youth with chronic conditions: a qualitative study. Child: Care, Health & Development, 44(2), 212-220 (early online 29 October 2017). DOI: 10.1111/cch.12535 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, Gofine, M, Stinson, J. (2014). Seeing is believing? A mixed methods study exploring the quality and perceived trustworthiness of online information about chronic conditions aimed at children and young people. Health Communication, 29(5), 473-482. DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2013.768325 Principal Author.

Biddiss, E, McPherson, AC, Shea, G, McKeever, P. (2013). The design and testing of interactive hospital spaces to meet the needs of waiting children. Health Environments Research & Design Journal, 6(3), 49-68. DOI: 10.1177/193758671300600305 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, Glazebrook, C, Forster, D, James, C & Smyth, A. (2006). A randomised, controlled trial to evaluate an interactive educational computer package for children with asthma. Pediatrics, 117(4), 1046-1054. DOI: 10.1542/peds.2005-0666 Principal Author.

McPherson, AC, Glazebrook, C, Smyth, A. (2005). Educational interventions- computers for delivering education to children with respiratory conditions and their parents. Paediatric Respiratory Reviews, 6(3), 215- 226. DOI: 10.1016/j.prrv.2005.06.008 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, Forster, D, Glazebrook, C, Smyth, A. (2002). The Asthma Files: Evaluation of a multimedia package for children’s asthma education. Paediatric Nursing, 14(2), 32- 35. DOI: 10.7748/paed2002.03.14.2.32.c787 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, Glazebrook, C, Smyth, A. (2001). Double click for health: the role of multimedia in asthma education. Archives of Disease in Childhood, 85(6), 447-449. DOI: 10.1136/adc.85.6.447 Coauthor or Collaborator.

This work spans interprofessional education, health service models, and system-level supports that impact care delivery. It includes early research on medical education, communication skills training, and strategies for integrating leadership and improving transitions across agencies and settings. 

Ballantyne, M, Orava, T, Bernardo, S, McPherson, AC, Church, P, Fehlings, D, Cohen, E. (2020). An environmental scan of parent-focused transition practices between neonatal follow up and children`s rehabilitation services. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 23(2), 113-120 (early online 21 August 2019). DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2019.1657199 Coauthor or Collaborator. 

King, G, Parker, K, Peacocke, S, Curran, CJ, McPherson, AC, Chau, T, Widgett, E, Fehlings, D, Milo-Manson, G. (2017). Centres for Leadership: A strategy for academic integration. Journal of Health Organization and Management, 31(3), 302-316. DOI: 10.1108/JHOM-11-2016-0225 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Lindsay, S, Cruickshank, H, McPherson, AC, Maxwell J. (2016). Implementation of an inter-agency transition model for youth with spina bifida. Child: Care, Health & Development, 42(2), 203-12 (early online 17 Nov 2015). DOI: 10.1111/cch.12303 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Price KJ, Wales J, Eiser C, Knowles, J, Heller, S, Freeman, J Brennan, A, McPherson, AC, Wellington, J. (2013). Does an intensive self-management structured education course improve outcomes for children and young people with type 1 diabetes? The Kids In Control OF Food (KICk-OFF) cluster randomised controlled trial protocol. BMJ Open, 3(1), e002429. DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2012-002429 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Rees, CE, Sheard, CS & McPherson, AC. (2004). Medical students' views and experiences of methods of teaching and learning communication skills. Patient Education and Counselling, 54(1), 119-121. DOI: 10.1016/S0738-3991(03)00196-4 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Rees, CE, Sheard, CS & McPherson, AC. (2002). A qualitative study to explore undergraduate medical students’ attitudes towards communication skills learning. Medical Teacher, 24(3), 289-293. DOI: 10.1080/01421590220134123 Coauthor or Collaborator.

Rees, CE, Sheard, CS & McPherson, AC. (2002). Communication skills assessment: the perceptions of medical students at the University of Nottingham. Medical Education, 36(9), 868-878. DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2923.2002.01300.x Coauthor or Collaborator.

Parker, SG, Peet, SM, McPherson, AC, Cannaby, AM, Abrams, K, Baker, R, Wilson, A, Lindesay, J, Parker, G, Jones, DR. (2002). A systematic review of discharge arrangements for older people. Health Technology Assessment (Winchester, England), 6(4), 1-183. DOI: 12002008443 Coauthor or Collaborator.

McPherson, AC, Furniss, FG, Sdogati, C, Cesaroni, F, Tartaglini, B & Lindesay, J. (2001). Effects of individualised memory aids on the conversation of persons with severe dementia: a pilot study. Aging & Mental Health, 5(3), 289- 294. DOI: 10.1080/13607860120064970 Principal author.