Sexual abuse of a child is generally defined as physical contact or other interaction between a child (under age 17, for example) and an adult when the child is being used for the sexual stimulation or pleasure of the perpetrator or another person. In addition to physical contact, sexual abuse of a child may include (1) the exposure of the genitals of an adult in the presence of a child, (2) the exposure of the genitals of a child, (3) using a child in making pornography, or (4) making a child view sexual acts or pornography.

And in some states multiple instances of sexual contact between an adult and a child may constitute the enhanced criminal offense of continual sexual abuse of a child—which is sometimes a first-degree felony offense.

In Alaska, sexual abuse of a minor is a serious criminal offense, with laws specifically addressing various forms of sexual abuse. Under Alaska Statute Section 11.41.434 - 11.41.440, sexual abuse of a minor can range from first-degree to fourth-degree offenses, depending on factors such as the age of the child, the nature of the conduct, and the age difference between the perpetrator and the child. Sexual abuse of a minor in the first degree, which is a class A felony, includes engaging in sexual penetration with a child under 13 years of age or directing the child to engage in such conduct with another person. The law also criminalizes the exploitation of a minor, which includes creating child pornography or causing a child to view sexual conduct. Alaska does not have a specific statute for continual sexual abuse of a child; however, each act of sexual abuse can be charged separately, and multiple offenses can lead to more severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.