Firesetting: Psychopathology, theory and treatment

In this paper, we comprehensively review characteristics of adult firesetters, and the etiological features of

firesetting. In particular, we pay attention to contemporary research available as to core traits and

psychopathological features required to understand firesetters, and the classificatory systems and etiological

theories developed to understand firesetting. This evaluation of contemporary research suggests that clinical

knowledge and practice relating to firesetting is extremely underdeveloped relative to other areas of forensicclinical

psychology.We conclude that there are very few etiological theories available to guide consulting clinicians

in this area, and little information available specifying the exact criminogenic needs associated with firesetters, or

how these needs compare to other offender groups. The significant lack of contemporary treatment programs

designed to target firesetting behavior is also noted.We conclude by highlighting core areas for future research and

treatment progression.