Although the touching of children as a sign of affection and for hygiene is considered normal and necessary, there is a way to distinguish normal touching from child sexual abuse. The key is the intention by the perpetrator to be sexually aroused by the activity or the intention to create sexual arousal in others. The intent to use children in any way to create sexual arousal is illegal. This is criminal behavior that is aggressively prosecuted and severely punished by our legal system. Child sexual abuse can include a wide variety of activities, any of which can be evaluated to determine if they are designed to create sexual gratification.
Activities can include any conventional adult sexual activity with a child.
Also included are acts such as touching the child's genitals or fondling with the intention of arousing sexual feelings. Photographing, videotaping, or filming of children with the intent to create sexual stimulation is a form of child abuse as well. The collection of any photographs or images of children taken by others in suggestive poses is illegal. The collection of any excessive number of photographs of naked children in any pose may draw the attention of law enforcement. Any efforts to seduce a minor into a sexual relationship, whether the act is accomplished or not, will likewise be considered a form of child sexual abuse and will result in severe legal consequences.