Abstract

In recent years a number of investigations have considered why some individuals, both juvenile and adult, are drawn to the act of fire-setting. Here we briefly review two investigations into the causes and classification of fire-setting. The first investigation presents a classification system for child and juvenile fire-starters, while the second seeks to develop an understanding of why, in some cases fire-starting continues into adulthood. We then present some pointers for intervention based on an offence profile approach. Finally, we suggest that, in order to develop effective interventions, we need first to understand both the differential developmental experiences of offenders and the underlying motivations.