Child sexual abuse: a handbook for parents and caregivers

Child sexual abuse is the assertion of power, through sexual acts, against children
before the age of consent À“ that is, under 16 years of age. Whether or not a child
under the age of 16 allegedly consented to such sexual activity is immaterial
to the defi nition of sexual abuse. Sex with a child under the age of 16 is legally
defi ned as statutory rape. Sex without consent at any age is illegal. Child sexual
abuse may be perpetrated by adults or children.

Publisher: CADRE, Dept of Health SA
Year of Publication: 2003