NCJ Number
126386
Date Published
1988
Length
47 pages
Annotation
This manual provides firefighters with guidance on identifying and providing early intervention to preadolescent firesetters up to the age of seven. Specifically, the manual teaches fire service personnel to recognize problems in children that may lead to recurrent firesetting, to interview firesetting children and their families, to educate curiosity firesetters and their families, and to select and refer children and families for professional mental health assistance.
Abstract
An introductory section describes youthful firesetters in terms of a child's emotional state; thoughts; and behavioral, environmental, or physical traits. Interviews with schools, the child, and family members are discussed, and activities outlined include establishing rapport, determining the level of understanding, and gathering information. An introduction to categorizing various behaviors using profile sheets is followed by a section on suggested interventions. These include an educational strategy, a negative practice strategy, instructions on lighting matches and uses for matches, behavioral strategy, and restitution. The manual also examines the process of referring children and families to mental health professionals. 15 figures and 1 appendix