Most experts agree that the best way to understand a child's firesetting is by looking at the context and motivation for the behavior. There are four types of firesetting. For each type, there is a different strategy used to stop the behavior.

Curiosity Firesetting

Child:  Usually 3-7 year old boy, usually alone.
Fire:  A closet, under a bed or a hidden origin. Matches or lighter with ordinary combustibles. Panics if fire gets out of control.
Why:  Child is curious and plays with fire to learn about it.
Risks:  Because the child doesn't understand the consequences of their actions, the fire can cause major damage.
Treatment:  Fire safety education.

Crisis Firesetting

Child:  Usually 5-10 year old boy, almost always alone. Recent change in life or recent trauma.
Fire:  Highly symbolic fire, someone's possessions or clothes, or specific location. Related to stress.
Why:  Child is using fire as a "cry for help", unable to cope with sudden change.
Risks:  The child will continue until stress is relieved, or is taught safer ways to cope.
Treatment:  Counseling and education.

Delinquent Firesetting

Child:  Usually 10-14 year old boys and girls, always in a group.
Fire:  Usually an outdoor location, vandalism type fires.
Risks:  Can cause harm to self and others.
Treatment:  Restitution and education.

Problem Firesetting

Child:  Usually 7-12 years old, almost always boy, usually alone. Aggressive behavior, history of school/social problems.
Fire:  Random or ritualized, usually in or around the home.
Why:  Often no clear motivation for firesetting.
Risks:  Very high reoccurrence.
Treatment:  Counseling.