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 Wisconsin, sexual abuse of a child is addressed under various statutes that criminalize acts of sexual contact or intercourse with minors. Wisconsin law defines a child as a person under the age of 18 for the purposes of sexual assault. The state's statutes prohibit an adult from engaging in sexual contact or intercourse with a child, exposing genitals to a child, causing a child to expose their genitals, using a child in the production of pornography, or making a child view sexual acts or pornography. These offenses are categorized under different degrees of sexual assault, with the severity of the charge depending on factors such as the age of the child, the nature of the act, and the use of force or coercion. Wisconsin does not have a specific statute for continual sexual abuse of a child; however, repeated acts of sexual abuse can lead to multiple charges or be considered as aggravating factors in sentencing. It is important to note that these laws are subject to change, and an attorney can provide the most current legal advice and guidance.