Curious Fire Starters
Many young children are fascinated by fire, but do not understand it’s destructive nature. These fire starters are usually between the ages of 1 and 8. Children set fires because of curiosity, or accidentally due to poor judgment. These fires are unplanned and started with matches or lighters that are readily available. Usually, there is an attempt by the juvenile to extinguish the fire or call for help. Feelings of guilt or remorse occur after the incident. Often, young children imitate adults who light cigarettes, candles, or fireplaces. Unfortunately, many fire starters lack parental supervision or education about fire safety.
Troubled Fire Starters
Mental or emotional disturbances can cause fire setting behavior. Many of these fire starters are boys and live in single parent homes with little adult supervision. One or more of the following problems may exist: physical illnesses, history of physical or sexual abuse, poor impulse control, and overwhelming feelings of anger. These children often set fires as a way to act out anger, frustration, and feelings of powerlessness.
Delinquent Fire Starters
These are youths usually in their teens with a history of starting fires. They set fires as acts of vandalism or for creating excitement and destroying property. Usually strongly influenced by their peers, they use fire to cause malicious mischief or rebel against authority. Abandoned buildings, open fields, and schools are common targets. Most of these fire starters have a history of antisocial behavior, lying, stealing, truancy, and drugs.
Pathological Fire Starters
These youths often have a long history of behavioral problems. Their symptoms usually fall into two major personality types labeled as "Impulsive Neurotic" and "Borderline Psychotic".
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