This special issue showcases the contributions of mostly early career researchers to 10
illustrate the methodological opportunities and challenges that arise in doing critical
qualitative research on the Internet. As we discuss, the articles included in this special
issue demonstrate innovative qualitative methods that can be applied to Internet
research and the steps that need to be taken to conduct rigorous and ethical qualitative
research, from a critical psychological perspective. This special issue focuses on a range 15
of methodological issues that can arise while conducting qualitative research online.
The authors are seen to acknowledge the power relations that shape online spaces and
relationships, and to reflexively and continually consider their roles in data collection
or generation. The articles presented in this special issue also highlight ways in which
critical qualitative researchers can innovatively negotiate the ethical issues that can 20
occur within a dynamic context, and challenge the status quo through conducting this
type of research. Online spaces continually change and present ongoing opportunities
and challenges for researchers, yet, this special issue illustrates how critical qualitative
researchers are well equipped to continue developing this line of research.