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 Virginia, sexual abuse of a child is a serious criminal offense. The state's laws define sexual abuse as any act involving sexual exploitation or molestation of a child by an adult. This includes physical sexual contact, exposure of genitals by an adult to a child or vice versa, using a child to produce pornography, or forcing a child to view sexual acts or pornography. Virginia law considers a child to be anyone under the age of 18. The state has specific statutes that address these crimes, such as 'Taking indecent liberties with children' under Virginia Code Section 18.2-370, which can be charged as a felony and involves lewd acts with a child under the age of 15. Additionally, 'Producing, distributing, financing, etc., child pornography; presumption as to age' is covered under Section 18.2-374.1. Virginia does not have a statute specifically named 'continual sexual abuse of a child,' but repeated offenses can lead to more severe charges and penalties, including life imprisonment for certain convictions. It's important to note that these laws are subject to change, and an attorney can provide the most current legal advice.