Abstract
Internet-based research is increasing in popularity, but concerns remain about ethical issues and guidance is sparse in relation to generating data using online forums. To describe and discuss ethical considerations concerning the collecting of data through online forums by using the authors' research exploring women's views and experiences of birth plans. Using online discussion forums helped to generate data rapidly. However, ethical concerns required attention throughout the study. The authors engage with debates about the public/private nature of online research, the complexities of ensuring consent in this context is informed, and questions about anonymity and confidentiality, where data are traceable and identifiable through search engines. Research undertaken using online forums generates ethical issues similar to those seen in 'real world' studies. Researchers need to explore how the designs of their studies are affected by issues such as ensuring informed consent and mitigating for the publicly viewable and searchable nature of the data obtained.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
