What term describes an individual who engages in sexual activity with minors?

The term that accurately describes an individual who engages in sexual activity with minors is "child molester." This term specifically refers to an adult who has sexual contact with a child, emphasizing the exploitative and abusive nature of the act. It conveys the legal and social implications of such actions, which are considered severe crimes against children, often resulting in significant legal penalties and societal condemnation.

While "child predator" may also seem relevant, it is generally used to describe someone who seeks out children for the purpose of sexual abuse. However, it does not necessarily imply that the individual has already engaged in the act of molestation. The distinction is important as it highlights the specific criminal behavior defined by the term "child molester."

"Sex offender" is a broader category that encompasses various types of sexual crimes, including those against minors and even those that may not involve children at all. Similarly, "deviant" refers to behavior that deviates from societal norms, but it is not specifically linked to sexual activity with minors and lacks the explicit legal connotations associated with the other terms. Thus, "child molester" is the most precise descriptor in this context.