Under what conditions is sexual abuse of a child under 12 years old defined?

The definition of sexual abuse of a child under 12 years old specifically involves the act of a perpetrator subjecting a child younger than that age to sexual contact. The legal framework emphasizes the protection of minors from any form of sexual exploitation or abuse, particularly given their vulnerability and inability to consent. In this context, option B accurately captures the essential element of the crime, which is the act of engaging in sexual contact with a minor who is below the age threshold of 12.

Other options focus on unrelated aspects; for example, the age of the perpetrator listed in option A does not determine the crime since any sexual contact with a child under 12 constitutes abuse, regardless of the perpetrator's age. Option C, stating that the perpetrator is a foster parent, does not alone define sexual abuse as abuse can occur regardless of the relationship. Lastly, option D incorrectly implies that consent from a guardian could legitimize the act, while legal statutes typically recognize that minors are not in a position to provide valid consent in cases of sexual contact, thus reinforcing the illegality of the act itself.