Different Types of Juvenile Firesetters

Juvenile Firesetters typically fall into four categories. They share common characteristics in the reason the child is setting the fire and the severity of the fire.

1. Curious

   The child sets the fire either accidentally or through curiosity, both caused by poor judgment.

   • Ages are typically between of 3 – 7 years old.
   • They are unaware of fire’s dangers and destructive nature.
   • Lighters and matches fascinate them.
   • They enjoy imitating adults who light candles, grills, fireplaces, or cigarettes.
   • Ignite household items.
   • Hide to light fires (under beds or in closets).

2. Troubled

   The child sets fires as a way to act out anger, frustration and the feeling of being powerless.

   • Ages are typically between 7-14 years old.
   • Lights relatively simple fires.
   • Uses matches or lighters.
   • Fire may symbolize a crisis in the child’s life.
   • Actions may be the child’s cry for help.

3. Delinquent

   The juvenile uses the fire to cause malicious mischief or to rebel against authority.

   • Ages are typically older, between 13 – 18 years old.
   • The juvenile knows the dangers of fire.
   • Fires are set to cause purposeful harm or destruction.
   • Most often fires are set with peers.
   • Typical fires include school fires, fireworks, smoke bombs, false alarms, and outdoor locations such as dumpsters, brush, fences, and trash cans.

4. Severely Disturbed

   The juvenile has a long history of behavioral, medical or neurological problems and a long history of firesetting.

   • Juvenile has a life-long fascination with fire.
   • Fire setting follows a distinct pattern.
   • Secretly proud of fires set.
   • Fires may be very sophisticated.
   • Fires set are very destructive.