How does Pennsylvania define "sexual abuse" in children?

In Pennsylvania, "sexual abuse" is defined as any sexual act or exploitation directed toward a child. This definition encompasses a wide range of behaviors, including but not limited to inappropriate touching, fondling, exploitation through pornography, and other forms of sexual exploitation. The emphasis is on the direct sexual involvement or exploitation of the child, which is critical for recognizing and reporting such instances of abuse.

Understanding this definition is vital for individuals working with children, as it highlights the seriousness and variety of actions that can constitute sexual abuse. It is essential to differentiate this from emotional manipulation or other forms of abuse, such as physical punishment or neglect, which relate to different types of maltreatment that also need to be addressed but do not fall under the specific category of sexual abuse. Recognizing sexual abuse clearly ensures that those in protective roles can take appropriate and necessary actions to safeguard children from such exploitation.