What is defined as a sexually exploited child?

A sexually exploited child is specifically defined as a person under 18 who has been subjected to sexual exploitation. This definition captures the critical legal and social issue of minors being exploited in various forms, which can include but is not limited to sexual trafficking, prostitution, or other exploitative circumstances where the child's ability to act independently is compromised for the benefit of another person. Recognizing that exploitation can have profound psychological, physical, and emotional impacts on minors underlines the importance of identifying and addressing this issue within child protection laws and social services. Other options do not pertain to the definition of sexual exploitation and reflect different contexts that do not involve the exploitation aspect central to the definition provided.