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[Firesetting in attempted suicide]

W Laubichler1, A Kühberger, P Sedlmeier

  • 1Institut für Gerichtliche Medizin, Universität Salzburg.

Archiv Fur Kriminologie
|January 1, 1995
PubMed
Summary
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Suicidal arsonists, often older women, exhibit distinct profiles including higher psychosocial burden and unique fire-setting behaviors. This study differentiates suicidal firesetting from other motives, offering insights into complex psychological motivations.

Area of Science:

  • Forensic Psychiatry
  • Criminology
  • Psychology

Background:

  • Examined 103 arsonists over 25 years to understand motivations behind firesetting.
  • Identified a subset of 10 cases with suicidal intent or attempts associated with firesetting.

Observation:

  • Suicidal arsonists are typically older, with a higher proportion of women, and greater psychosocial burden compared to other arsonists.
  • Fires are often set in the arsonist's own residence, with revenge frequently being an accompanying motive.
  • Suicidally motivated arsonists tend to set only one fire.

Findings:

  • Five cases involved intended self-immolation, where the arsonist planned to die in the fire but escaped or was rescued.
  • Seven cases demonstrated extended suicide, involving the destruction of property, and two cases included intent to harm intimates.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Approximately half of suicidal arsonists were alcoholized at the time of the act, compared to 70% of other arsonists.

    • Implications:

    • Distinguishes 'suicide in combination with firesetting' from 'self-immolation' for clearer classification.
    • Highlights the need for tailored psychiatric and forensic interventions for individuals exhibiting suicidal firesetting behaviors.
    • Suggests unique demographic and psychological factors differentiate suicidal arsonists, informing risk assessment and prevention strategies.