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 Missouri, sexual abuse of a child is a serious criminal offense. Under Missouri law, a child is defined as anyone under the age of 17. Sexual abuse can include any physical contact or interaction for sexual stimulation or pleasure involving a child, which encompasses the acts described such as exposure of genitals by an adult to a child, exposure of a child's genitals, using a child in the production of pornography, or forcing a child to view sexual acts or pornography. Missouri statutes specifically address these actions under various sections of the criminal code, often classifying them as different degrees of child molestation, sexual misconduct, and use of a child in a sexual performance. The severity of the charges and the penalties upon conviction can vary based on the nature of the abuse, the age of the child, and the presence of aggravating factors such as the use of force or if the perpetrator is a repeat offender. Enhanced charges, such as 'statutory sodomy' or 'child molestation' in the first degree, may apply in cases of repeated sexual contact, which can be prosecuted as felonies with severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences.