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 New Jersey, sexual abuse of a child is addressed under various statutes that criminalize sexual conduct with minors. Under New Jersey law, a child is defined as anyone under the age of 18. Sexual abuse can include a range of behaviors such as engaging in sexual acts with a child, causing or permitting a child to engage in sexual activity, or involving a child in pornography. Specifically, New Jersey's criminal code includes offenses such as sexual assault, which can be a first-degree or second-degree crime depending on the circumstances, and endangering the welfare of a child, which can involve causing harm to a child's morals by engaging in sexual conduct. Additionally, New Jersey law criminalizes the creation, distribution, and possession of child pornography. The state does not have a specific statute for continual sexual abuse of a child as a separate offense, but repeated acts of sexual abuse can lead to multiple charges and enhanced penalties, including extended prison terms and mandatory registration as a sex offender under Megan's Law.