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 Iowa, sexual abuse of a child is a serious criminal offense. The state defines a child as anyone under the age of 18. Iowa law encompasses a range of behaviors as sexual abuse, including any sex act between a child and an adult for the adult's sexual gratification, indecent exposure to a minor, and the exploitation of a child in the production of pornography. Iowa Code Section 709.1 et seq. outlines the specifics of sexual abuse offenses, with varying degrees based on factors such as the age of the child, the use of force or manipulation, and the nature of the act. Additionally, Iowa has laws against lascivious acts with a child (Iowa Code Section 709.8), indecent exposure (Iowa Code Section 709.9), and sexual exploitation by a counselor or therapist (Iowa Code Section 709.15). The state also recognizes the crime of 'sexual exploitation of a minor' under Iowa Code Section 728.12, which includes possessing or distributing child pornography. Penalties for these offenses can be severe, including lengthy prison sentences, fines, and registration as a sex offender. Continual sexual abuse of a child, involving multiple instances of abuse, is also addressed under Iowa law and can lead to enhanced charges and penalties.