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 Vermont, sexual abuse of a child is addressed under various statutes that criminalize sexual conduct with minors. Vermont law defines a child as an individual under the age of 16. Sexual abuse can include any form of sexual contact with a child by an adult for the adult's sexual gratification, 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. Vermont statutes, such as 13 V.S.A. § 3252, specifically criminalize sexual assault, which includes any lewd or lascivious conduct with a child under the age of 16. Additionally, the state has laws against the possession, production, and distribution of child pornography under 13 V.S.A. § 2827. Vermont does not have a statute labeled 'continual sexual abuse of a child,' but repeated acts of sexual abuse can lead to multiple charges or enhanced penalties under existing sexual assault and child exploitation laws. Such offenses are treated with utmost seriousness and can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.