ABC Radio
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Pyromania vs revenge – why do people light fires?
Pyromania vs revenge – why do people light fires?
Pyromania vs revenge – why do people light fires?
Saturday 5th July 2025
Uncover the psychology of arson and pyromania with experts discussing motives, profiles, and investigation techniques in this engaging podcast episode.
30 minutes
Informative
Eye-opening
Compassionate
Educational
Engaging
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Get the buttons here!Why Do People Light Fires? Exploring Arson Psychology
Episode Overview
- Arson is often driven by motives like anger or revenge.
- Pyromania is rarely linked to sexual arousal.
- Most arsonists are never caught, skewing our understanding.
- Investigators use fire pattern indicators to trace origins.
- Social factors play a significant role in fire-setting behaviour.
It's terrifying – dancing around the fire in the moonlight with an erection.
Have you ever wondered why someone would intentionally start a fire, especially knowing the potential devastation it can cause? This episode of 'All In The Mind' dives into the complex psychology behind arson, exploring what drives individuals to commit such acts. With the infamous Black Saturday bushfires as a backdrop, the episode sheds light on the motivations and profiles of those who set fires.
Dr Paul Read, a climate criminologist, shares startling statistics about the prevalence of human-induced fires in Australia, while Dr Nichola Tyler offers insights into the typical arsonist profile. Richard Woods, a seasoned fire investigator, reveals the meticulous process of tracing a fire's origin. Together, they unpack the misconceptions surrounding pyromania and discuss the varying reasons behind fire-setting – from anger and revenge to a fascination with flames.
The episode also touches on the societal factors influencing arsonists, emphasising how many remain undetected. It's a fascinating exploration of an unusual crime that leaves you questioning what truly fuels the fire within these individuals. Dive into this intriguing episode to understand more about this destructive behaviour and its implications.