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2.7 - Arson

from Part II - Psychology and Criminal Behaviour

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 December 2021

Jennifer M. Brown
Affiliation:
London School of Economics and Political Science
Miranda A. H. Horvath
Affiliation:
University of Suffolk
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Summary

Recent literature has contributed to a greater understanding of the characteristics, motives, risk factors and treatment targets of individuals with firesetting histories. The current chapter will discuss the latest theoretical and empirical literature on firesetting, and will provide an overview of findings in relation to the general characteristics of firesetters, theories of firesetting, particular characteristics associated with juvenile and female firesetting, as well as risk assessment and management. The chapter will conclude with discussion of two treatment programs that have been developed to address the specific etiological pathways believed to be associated with firesetting, and provide some tentative evidence supporting their effectiveness.

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Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2021

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