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 Arkansas, sexual abuse of a child is a serious criminal offense. The state defines sexual abuse in various forms, including any inappropriate sexual contact with a minor, exposing an adult's or child's genitals, involving a child in the production of pornography, or forcing a child to view sexual acts or pornography. Arkansas law considers a child to be anyone under the age of 18. The state has specific statutes that address sexual indecency with a child, internet stalking of a child, and sexual exploitation of a child, among others. Arkansas Code Annotated § 5-14-101 and following sections outline the offenses and penalties related to sexual abuse of minors. Enhanced penalties may apply for continual sexual abuse, which involves repeated acts over time, and can be charged as a Class Y felony, the most serious level of felony in Arkansas, which can result in a sentence of 10 to 40 years or life imprisonment. The exact charges and penalties depend on the specific circumstances of the abuse, including the age of the child, the nature of the acts, and the perpetrator's criminal history.