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 Michigan, sexual abuse of a child is addressed under various statutes that criminalize sexual conduct with minors. Under Michigan law, a child is considered anyone under the age of 18. Sexual abuse can include criminal sexual conduct, which ranges from first to fourth degrees depending on the nature of the act, the age of the child, and the relationship between the offender and the child. First-degree criminal sexual conduct involves penetration and is a felony that can result in life imprisonment. Second-degree involves sexual contact without penetration and can also lead to severe penalties. Michigan law also prohibits the production, distribution, and possession of child pornography under the Child Sexually Abusive Material statute. Additionally, the state has laws against accosting, enticing, or soliciting a child for immoral purposes, and using the internet to commit these offenses. The state does not have a specific statute for continual sexual abuse of a child, but repeat offenses can lead to enhanced penalties and charges under the habitual offender statute.