NCJ Number
139513
Date Published
1989
Length
19 pages
Annotation
Juvenile firesetting can range from the seemingly innocent acts of naturally curious children playing with matches to the apparently vicious acts of the emotionally disturbed pyromaniac.
Abstract
Public schools are often targeted by delinquent firesetters who usually have a history of school-related problems. Costs of juvenile arson in public schools are estimated at nearly $500 million annually. For many troubled children, firesetting is a way of releasing anger and frustration and unleashing resentment in an aggressive and often symbolic attack on society. Motives of juvenile firesetters are varied and complex, and the most common background among juvenile firesetters is a troubled family life. Problems such as domestic violence, poor family relationships, abuse, and neglect cause many children to set fires and commit other delinquent acts. Their firesetting behavior is often a symbolic expression of inner pain and a cry for help. The question-and-answer format of the booklet addresses juveniles' attraction to fire, reasons for juvenile firesetting, firesetting patterns of young versus older children, differences between boy and girl firesetters, pyromania, the firesetting syndrome, common targets of juvenile firesetters, personal and behavioral problems of juvenile firesetters, stages of delinquency common to firesetting, and available treatment programs. The booklet also considers juvenile firesetter categories, behavioral and emotional problems associated with preteen and teenage firesetters, teaching children about fire, reducing the risk of juvenile arson, and agencies and professionals to contact for help.