Can someone put this in APA 7 with headings and subheadings? Final Project Milestone

Advocacy requires communicating with legislators about social problems and policies that require change. A social worker should be familiar with the policies that exist to address social issues. A social worker's policy proposals serve as a focal point for change and are an integral component of advocating for social policy.

Issue Statement

Domestic violence is defined by the CDC as "physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, and psychological aggression (including coercion) by a current or former intimate partner" (Huecker et al., 2023). The United Nations furthers clarification of this definition by adding that domestic violence is "a pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner" (United Nations, n.d.). The act of terrorizing, intimidating, hurting, humiliating, blaming, injuring, or wounding someone can be classified as patterns of domestic violence (United Nations, n.d.).

Intimate partner violence affects 10 million people in the United States each year, and one in four women will be physically abused by their intimate partners at some point in their lifetime (Whitesell, 2023). The effects of domestic violence are equally prevalent among people of all races, ages, sexual orientations, religions, and genders (United Nations, n.d.). Survivors are likely to experience chronic fear and anxiety, as well as low self-esteem, depression, and post-traumatic stress symptoms (Regan et al., 2015). All socioeconomic levels and educational levels are susceptible to experiencing domestic violence (United Nations, n.d.).

A major step towards combating this issue requires the public, decision-makers, and social workers to advocate for change. It is common for domestic violence victims to experience fear, isolation, and a lack of support (Fuller, 2024). Creating a safe, supportive environment for them can be achieved by advocating for change. Part of creating a supportive environment requires developing a network that provides legal aid, counseling, and transition services. It is through such efforts that entities can develop a stronger, more resilient community of people who value healthy relationships, mutual respect, as well as the safety and well-being of the citizens.

Describe what happens in communities if your goal to alleviate the problem is realized. Addressing the detrimental impact of domestic violence is extremely crucial in working towards alleviating the social issue. Alleviating the social issue can result in decreased reports of domestic violence, improved outcomes of mental health, and increased unity among communities. Research indicates that intimate partner violence has a profound impact on the mental health of survivors (World Health Organization, 2022). Educating the public about the connection between intimate partner violence and mental health is a critical step in addressing violence and its consequences to prevent further violence (World Health Organization, 2022).

Policy Review

New Jersey Bill S1318 ScaSca (2R) is state legislation that permits counties and non-governmental, community-based agencies to establish family justice centers which are responsible for providing coordinated, multi-agency assistance to victims of certain crimes and offenses, including domestic violence, and their families (NJ Legislature). The policy is related to the social problem because it aims to develop a centralized hub for victims of domestic violence to receive integrated and collaborative services to victims of domestic violence. To support domestic violence victims/survivors, family justice centers are meant to offer a variety of services and support that will help them navigate the legal system, seek justice, and begin their healing process.

How does the policy address your issue statement?The policy addresses the issue statement in several ways. The policy identifies and outlines the collaborations of both governmental and non-governmental agencies that aim to provide support to domestic violence victims along with their families. As part of Bill S1318 ScaSa (2R), education and awareness programs are emphasized as an important component of preventing domestic violence. Domestic violence is addressed in the bill by acknowledging the entities that play a crucial role in supporting victims and their families. To ensure a coordinated and effective response to domestic violence incidents, the policy promotes collaboration among law enforcement agencies, domestic violence shelters, and other relevant organizations.

What are the different sections, or components, of the policy? There are several sections and components that address the purpose of the policy. The Synopsis provides a description which serves as a unique identifier of what the Bill intends to achieve. It establishes that more than one Family Justice Centers can be developed, so long as all counties continue to coordinate and collaborate together. The Bill outlines who is responsible for overseeing the Family Justice Centers along with who will be staffing the centers. Training for employees or volunteers is outlined along with the specific policies for both the center and the victim. The bill also outlines when it would be put into effect, which is immediately upon approval.

How long has the current policy been in place? Bill S1318 ScaSa (2R) has been in place since January 21st, 2020. This policy has not been amended or updated since its approval.

Social Advocacy Proposal

According to surveys conducted over the years, community attitudes toward domestic violence have changed over time and a more comprehensive understanding of what constitutes domestic violence has been established (Horstman et al., 2022). Because a more comprehensive understanding of the social problem has increased, there should be more individuals willing to advocate for the support and services offered to those affected by domestic violence. The impact of advocacy efforts can be amplified by establishing partnerships with different organizations, experts, and survivors. To maximize their influence on public policy, advocates can work together to leverage diverse perspectives, resources, and expertise.

Identify the person or group who enacted the policy and explain their motivation or reason for advocating for this policy

The people who enacted the policy are Teresa M. Ruiz and Nicholas P. Scutari. Senator Ruiz has been quoted saying that "having one dedicated place to receive these services removes barriers to better meet the diverse needs of survivors and their families. By creating these family justice centers, survivors and their family members will be able to obtain the resources and support they need in an efficient and effective manner" (New Jersey Senate Democrats, 2019). Senator Scutari added to this by explaining that victims of domestic abuse need easier access to services and the Family Justice Centers would ensure victims have a myriad of services all in one place (New Jersey Senate Democrats, 2019).

Describe the ways in which the policy impacts the populations and discuss the consequences. The policy impacts the population affected by domestic violence by providing easier access to services by integrating multiple governmental and non-governmental agencies in a centralized location. By combining existing resources under one roof, services can be provided to a greater number of people while case management and interagency communication are improved (Duncan et al., 2021). This would result in a smoother, more efficient experience for those affected by domestic violence who find themselves at the Family Justice Centers.

What policy advocacy approaches and skills can you use to address the problem with political leaders?Domestic violence is a complex social issue, which involves the stories of survivors and victims. To address the problem with political leaders, advocates can pitch their stories to news outlets, organize press conferences, or participate in interviews to share their expertise and stories about those affected by domestic abuse. A broad audience can often be reached through the mass media, thereby forcing politicians into action (Jansson, 2017, p. 401). This would require the advocate to utilize communication skills, collaboration skills, and the ability to maintain professional relationships.

What are the social justice implications of your approach?The social justice implications to this approach are widespread. First, it continues to increase awareness of the issue while breaking down stereotypes and fostering a more informed society. Second, the mass media approach sees individuals and community organizations as a collective force that communicate their own voices to promote social change. Both of these aspects put forth a collective effort to help raise awareness that can assist in funding Family Justice Centers outlined in the Bill and future legislative initiatives aimed at ending domestic violence.

Conclusion

Approximately 20 American citizens are physically abused by an intimate partner every minute, which equates to approximately 10 million abuse incidents per year (Duncan et al., 2021). Knowledge of policies that address the social issue of domestic violence can allow social workers to advocate for change with legislators. Policy proposals give social workers the opportunity to present the issue while advocating for change.