The legal definition encompasses a range of behaviors considered indecent or obscene when directed towards or involving an individual below the age of majority. These actions often involve explicit or graphic sexual conduct intended to arouse or gratify, and can include physical contact, exhibitionism, or the creation and distribution of related materials. An example would be an adult engaging in sexually suggestive dancing in front of a child, or the production of images depicting a minor in a sexually explicit pose.
Understanding the parameters of this definition is crucial for legal professionals, law enforcement, and child welfare agencies. A precise interpretation aids in identifying, prosecuting, and preventing child exploitation. Furthermore, historical context reveals an evolving understanding of what constitutes harm to a minor, with legal definitions adapting over time to reflect changing social norms and scientific insights into child development and trauma.
