SEXUAL ABUSE

Sexual abuse is defined as any completed or attempted sexual act with, sexual contact with, or exploitation of a child by a caregiver.​

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Sexual abuse occurs when a child is exposed to or engaged in sexual activities in which the child cannot give consent, or are coercive in nature, or violate the law, or when there is a developmental asymmetry among the participants. The perpetrator is generally an older or more mature person. The sexual activities may include any of the following: fondling of genitalia or breasts, oral‐genital contact, vaginal or anal penetration, exploitation in pornography or prostitution, exhibitionism, or voyeurism.

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Synonyms:

Molestation

Rape

Sexual assault