How to research sensitive & intimate issues online

It’s absolutely necessary to conduct such research online, here are some guidelines:

• Institutional Review Board: Gain approval from an Institutional Review Board (IRB) or relevant ethical committee before undertaking any research project;
• Privacy and confidentiality: Ensure privacy and confidentiality of participants by taking appropriate measure to anonymize the data collected;
• Research tools: Use appropriate research tools such as anonymity and confidentiality agreements, online survey tools, and secure data storage and transfer systems;
• Informed consent: Obtain informed consent from participants and explain the purpose of the research, including potential risks or benefits;
• Appropriate language and tone: Use appropriate language and tone when writing questions, being sensitive to cultural and gender variations that may affect participant comfort levels;
• Consider ethical implications: Consider ethical implications of your research and avoid causing harm or distress to participants;
• Follow legal and ethical guidelines: Ensure that the research follows legal and ethical guidelines for your region;
• Seek expert opinion: Seek the opinion and guidance of experts in the field to minimize potential risks and harm.

It’s important to make sure that the privacy, dignity, and safety of participants are respected throughout the research process.