The classification of deliberate firesetting

Abstract

The construction of typologies and classification systems has proved highly popular in the area of deliberate firesetting, particularly for developing units of explanation for this behaviour. However, the methods and approaches applied to the classification of firesetting have arguably stunted academic and clinical understanding of this behaviour. As a result, firesetting remains poorly understood and meaningful classification systems to guide assessment and treatment are in their infancy. This article aims to review and critique existing classification systems for deliberate firesetting. The strengths and weaknesses of classificatory approaches in the extant literature are considered and suggestions as to how future research may approach classification of firesetting, so as to advance knowledge of this behaviour, are presented. • There has been considerable focus on classifying firesetting. • Many of the existing classification systems use similar defining constructs. • Direction on how to improve and develop classification systems for firesetting appears to be lacking. • Classification has the potential to aid explanation of firesetting and guide investigation, risk assessment and treatment. • To improve both classification and knowledge development, further theoretical and empirical research is urgently needed.