In a move aimed at assisting families understand the effects of communications technology on everyday life, Qwest (News - Alert) Communications has tied up with noted psychologist Linda Young as part of its public service initiative, Incredible Internet. Young is the latest addition to Qwest’s expanding group of online safety experts at www.IncredibleInternet.com.

 

Qwest and the Qwest Foundation are dedicated to assisting families properly safeguard their children from online dangers. Since 2003, Qwest has collaborated with NCMEC to increase family consciousness about online safety issues and assisted in tackling online abuse proactively by promoting enhanced parental and guardian understanding and education. Qwest, at present, is promoting its Online Safety Program across the U.S., and the Qwest Foundation supports NCMEC resource www.NetSmartz411.org, a free, exclusive resource that offers families prompt access to specialists at NCMEC who can act in response to their definite queries and anxiety about online security.

 

Qwest’s Online Safety Coalition, a combination of experts on legal enforcement, education, and government in Colorado, Minnesota, and Washington, felt the necessity for greater educational expansion, stirring the search for an expert advisor.

 

Paula Kruger, executive vice president of mass markets for Qwest, and leader of the Qwest online safety education program observed, “In partnership with our Online Safety Coalition members, we’ve established a deeper understanding of how children and teens see technology differently than adults.”

 

She added, “Dr. Young’s unique perspective helps Qwest and the coalitions bridge the digital fluency gap between children and parents to promote a safer online experience for broadband customers.”

 

The handbook designed by Young is offers professional support to aid families’ stay safer. The guide consists of several sensitive topics including, How Technology is Changing Relationships, and Seven Reasons Good Kids Do Bad Things on the Internet.