Under Texas law, child sexual abuse (also known as sexual assault of a minor or child molestation) addresses any sexual conduct harmful to the mental, physical, or emotional welfare of a child, which is anyone under 17 years of age. The definition, which is outlined in Chapter 261 of the Texas Family Code, also includes:nFailing to make a reasonable effort to prevent sexual conduct with a childnCompelling or encouraging the child to engage in sexual conduct.