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 Alabama, sexual abuse of a child is a serious criminal offense. Under Alabama law, a child is defined as a person under the age of 17. Sexual abuse includes any sexual contact between an adult and a child for the purpose of sexual gratification of the adult or another person. This encompasses a range of behaviors including the exposure of an adult's genitals to a child, exposure of a child's genitals, involving a child in the production of pornography, or forcing a child to view sexual acts or pornography. Alabama law recognizes different degrees of sexual abuse, with first-degree sexual abuse involving a child under 12 years old or when the perpetrator is over 16 and at least two years older than the victim. The state may also impose more severe penalties for repeated acts of sexual abuse over time, which could be prosecuted under charges such as sexual torture or aggravated child abuse, depending on the circumstances. These offenses can result in significant prison time and are often classified as felonies, with first-degree sexual abuse being a Class C felony. It's important to note that the specifics of the charges and penalties can vary based on the details of each case.