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 Nebraska, sexual abuse of a child is addressed under various statutes that criminalize acts of sexual conduct with minors. According to Nebraska Revised Statute 28-319.01, any person nineteen years of age or older who subjects a child under the age of sixteen to sexual contact is guilty of sexual assault of a child in the third degree, which is a felony. The law also covers the exposure of genitals to a child, the use of a child in producing child pornography, and causing a child to view sexual acts or pornography. Nebraska Revised Statute 28-320.01 specifically criminalizes the visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a child, which pertains to child pornography. Furthermore, Nebraska has a statute for 'Child Enticement' under 28-311 which could encompass making a child view sexual acts or pornography. The state does not have a specific statute for 'continual sexual abuse of a child' as described, but multiple instances of sexual abuse can lead to multiple charges or enhanced penalties under the existing sexual assault and child abuse laws. It is important to note that these laws are subject to change and interpretation by courts, and an attorney can provide the most current legal advice and representation in such matters.