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A Study of Firesetters in the South-West of Ireland

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2018

Geraldine H. O'Sullivan  and
Michael J. Kelleher
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Abstract

A survey of 54 firesetters who had been in hospital or prison was conducted. The results confirmed earlier findings on several aspects, such as male predominance, unstable childhood and proclivity to self-injurious behaviour. Revenge emerged as the commonest motive overall and an association with alcohol was found. Only 11% of the fire-raising episodes, whether among hospital or prison groups, were truly trivial. Arsonists in prison and hospital had many features in common and generally were quite psychologically disturbed, which contrasted with those who set fires for profit. A poor outcome was found, with continuing self-harm and a high suicide rate. Our findings suggest that arson recidivism arises in at least 35% of arsonists.

Type
Papers
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 151 , Issue 6 , December 1987 , pp. 818 - 823
Copyright
Copyright © Royal College of Psychiatrists, 1987 

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