What to do if you "suspect" your child has been abused

Pattie Mallette, Best-selling Author and Award-winning Producer, shares advice for parents on what to do if you suspect your child has been abused
What To Do If You Suspect Your Child Has Been Abused
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What to do if you "suspect" your child has been abused

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Children that have been abused are filled with so much shame; they often blame themselves, so it's sometimes hard to get the truth out of your child. I think it's really important to talk to your children--to ask them questions, to let them know that they are safe, and that you believe them. I think it's important to have a dialogue with your kids, all growing up, so that they're aware of what abuse is--what sexual abuse in particular is--and to let them know that it's okay to talk about it. When I was about 10 years old, and I had been sexually abused since I was 5, there was a PSA--a public service announcement--that came on TV. It was Emmanuel Lewis from "Webster." He came on the TV. I had not told anybody about the sexual abuse that had been going on in my life. He said, "You say no, and go and tell someone." That was the first time I had ever heard somebody put into words what was going on in my life. That's the first time I really had any sort of permission, if you will, to say "no" to my abusers.

Pattie Mallette, Best-selling Author and Award-winning Producer, shares advice for parents on what to do if you suspect your child has been abused

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Pattie Mallette

New York Times Best Selling Author, Award Winning Film Producer, & Inspirational Speaker

Pattie Mallette grew up in Stratford, Ontario overcoming unimaginable obstacles in the face of abuse, poverty and an unexpected teen pregnancy. She now uses her voice to inspire others as a bestselling author, producer and influential speaker. In 2012, Pattie published her memoir, Nowhere But Up (Revell), which became a New York Times bestseller within the first week of its release. As an executive producer she worked on “Crescendo,” a short film that received 11 international film festival honors prior to its premier in February 2013. Proceeds of “Crescendo” are being used to support crisis pregnancy centers worldwide, a passion of Pattie’s that grew from her own experience. As a single parent at 18, Pattie was personally assisted by a center, which despite her difficult circumstances enabled her to be the best mother possible to her son, Justin. Continuing her desire to help others give voice to their own stories, Pattie became an executive producer of “Day One,” starring Kat Dennings (2 Broke Girls). Set to release in winter 2013, the feature film is inspired by the true story behind the global movement To Write Love on Her Arms.

Pattie recently launched her foundation called Round 2, which seeks to offer a second chance to those who have been knocked down by providing assistance and resources to those in distress. Across all platforms, her authenticity and candidness are magnetic to adolescents and adults alike as she fearlessly brings to light her own wounds and addresses sensitive issues with wisdom and insight.

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