Arsonists and Violent Offenders Compared: Two Peas in a Pod?

Arsonists are considered a type of violent offender by some and a distinct group of offenders by others. Assuming the latter could be beneficial to offer tailor-made psychotherapeutic treatment to these offenders. 

The present study investigated whether arsonists (n = 55) and violent offenders (n = 41) are differentiable regarding several demographic and personal characteristics, and criminal career. 

Results indicated that arsonists were significantly more often diagnosed with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) Axis II disorder, and more socially isolated and lacking coping skills. 

Violent offenders, on the other hand, demonstrated more drug abuse/dependence, a younger age at the first manifestation of antisocial behavior, a more extensive criminal history and higher percentage of recidivism. 

In light of these results, it is conceivable that arsonists could benefit from a slightly different treatment approach, for example, with more attention to relational and emotion regulation skills.

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By:   Wilpert J¹, van Horn J², Eisenberg M².

¹De Forensische Zorgspecialisten [The Forensic Care Specialists], Utrecht, The Netherlands jwilpert@dfzs.nl.

²De Forensische Zorgspecialisten [The Forensic Care Specialists], Utrecht, The Netherlands. 

Int J Offender Ther Comp Criminol. 2015 Dec 31. pii: 0306624X15619165.

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