Rep. Thompson bringing awareness to teen dating violence – Michigan House Republicans

Report on Michigan House Resolution 245: Addressing Teen Dating Violence and Promoting Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction

On Wednesday, the Michigan House overwhelmingly approved House Resolution 245, introduced by State Representative Jamie Thompson. The resolution aims to protect young people and raise awareness about teen dating violence by declaring February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and commemorating February 10 as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Day in Michigan.

Scope and Impact of Teen Dating Violence

Teen dating violence encompasses various behaviors including:

• Physical violence
• Sexual violence
• Psychological aggression
• Stalking

Studies indicate that nearly 50% of teenagers, both girls and boys, experience at least one form of teen dating violence. Additionally, one in seven teens report experiencing two or more types. The consequences are severe, with affected teens being more than twice as likely to consider suicide compared to their peers.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This initiative aligns closely with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including:

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – By addressing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse linked to teen dating violence.
2. SDG 4: Quality Education – Through education and community outreach to promote healthy relationships and informed decision-making among youth.
3. SDG 5: Gender Equality – By raising awareness of violence that disproportionately affects young women and promoting safe environments.
4. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – By fostering safe communities and supporting legislative actions to protect vulnerable populations.

Legislative and Community Efforts

Representative Thompson, Vice Chair of the House Health Policy Committee and member of the House Families and Veterans Committee, emphasized the importance of education, community outreach, and awareness as key strategies to combat teen dating violence. She highlighted the need for collaborative efforts among adults, parents, educators, and elected leaders to develop solutions benefiting children, families, schools, and communities.

Thompson shared a personal testimony regarding her late daughter, who tragically lost her life in 2021 due to an abusive relationship. This story underscores the critical need to recognize signs of unhealthy relationships and ensure that young people have access to support systems.

Community Support and Partnerships

The resolution’s passage was supported by representatives from various Downriver and southeast Michigan organizations dedicated to assisting children and families, including:

• Lynn Uveges and Johan Sutton from Soroptimist International of the Flat Rock Area
• Laura Reiners of Growth Works
• Lisa Horvath of The Guidance Center

Conclusion

House Resolution 245 represents a significant step towards addressing teen dating violence in Michigan, promoting awareness, and aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of young people. The resolution encourages ongoing vigilance and community engagement to break cycles of trauma and empower youth with the tools necessary for healthy relationships.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article discusses mental health impacts such as depression, anxiety, and suicide risk among teens experiencing dating violence.
2. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Focus on education, community outreach, and awareness to help teens develop healthy relationships and make informed choices.
3. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • Addressing violence against young people, including girls and boys, and promoting safe and equitable relationships.
4. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Efforts to reduce violence, including physical, sexual, and psychological violence among teens, and promoting safe communities.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
   • Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol.
2. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.7: Ensure that all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including human rights, gender equality, and a culture of peace and non-violence.
3. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.
4. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Prevalence of Teen Dating Violence
   • Percentage of teens experiencing one or more types of dating violence (physical, sexual, psychological aggression, stalking).
   • Percentage of teens experiencing multiple types of dating violence.
2. Mental Health Outcomes
   • Rate of suicidal ideation or suicide attempts among teens who have experienced dating violence compared to peers.
   • Incidence of depression, anxiety, substance abuse related to teen dating violence.
3. Awareness and Education
   • Measures of community outreach and education programs effectiveness in increasing awareness of teen dating violence.
   • Number of teens who can identify signs of unhealthy or abusive relationships and know where to seek support.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: gophouse.org