Legal Definitions - child molestation

Child molestation is any indecent or sexual activity involving a child, usually under the age of 14. It is a form of molestation that can cause physical and emotional harm to the child.

• An adult touching a child's private parts for sexual pleasure
• Forcing a child to perform sexual acts
• Exposing a child to pornography

These examples illustrate how child molestation involves sexual activity that is unwanted and inappropriate for a child's age and development. It can cause long-term emotional and psychological damage to the child, and is a serious crime that can result in severe legal consequences for the perpetrator.