New Law Designed to Prevent Teen Violence

Over the years, Central Indiana has experienced an increase in teen girls who are in more violent relationships. In 2005, 13.5% of Indiana high school girls reported they had experienced dating violence (had been hit, slapped or physically hurt on purpose by a boyfriend or girlfriend) in the last 12 months. This translates to approximately 5,000 Indianapolis area girls, ages 15-18, who experienced dating violence in one year alone.

As advocates for the prevention of teen violence and keeping our community's children safe, Women’s Fund was pleased to learn that on Monday, Governor Mitch Daniels signed “Heather’s Law” – a bill enabling schools to address dating violence through education programs and policies for girls and boys in grades 6 through 12. This was a great collaboration between many partners who developed Heather’s Law, demonstrating the importance of addressing this issue and reinforcing the importance of partnering to create change.

Violence among dating teenagers permeates many high schools and homes and cuts across every socioeconomic group. Teen violence is not new; however, it is a silent matter most adults do not recognize or accept easily, and therefore is not easily discussed and addressed. Teen violence proliferates from adult violence, often causing young children to repeat actions – or become victims of abuse. In fact, children witness 75% of all domestic violence incidents, and are, in turn, 1,500% more likely to become victims themselves.

Education is key. Heather’s Law has reinforced the importance of education and helping children – many of whom are in relationships for the first time and therefore don’t know and understand what constitutes healthy relationships. Women’s Fund has long supported community efforts that prevent violence, including funding a program through Ruth Lilly Heath Education Center designed to teach every IPS 5th and 7th grade student about healthy relationships annually for three years. In its final year, this program has become a national model and students have demonstrated increased knowledge of healthy relationships. This program, along with Heather's Law, are critical steps to reducing and ending violence among teens, and ultimately stopping its demonstrative cycle.

As a community, we must find a way to protect more young people from violence. While Heather’s Law requires the schools to take action, I believe it is the responsibility of everyone to take an active role in educating and supporting young children. It should be our role as adults to serve as mentors and positive role models so our children recognize abusive behavior and feel empowered to get help. What will you do to make a difference?