Juvenile Firesetting Research Paper

JUVENILES AND FIRESETTING
I Introduction
When fire is maliciously set, it is called Arson. When arson is committed by juveniles under the age of 18, it is called firesetting. Fresno, California had the highest per capita arson rates in 1994 and 1995, with over seventy percent of these set by juveniles. There are reasons why some children are particularly attracted to fire, and destruction. Also, there are key warning signs to look for in children to prevent this type of all too common devastation. Even more troubling, is what this infantile activity can lead to later in life.
II Main Points
A. Juvenile firesetting has become a major problem in the United States.
1. Once viewed by many as a crime perpetrated primarily by adults,
The impact of the damage created by juvenile firesetting has been documented by various sources. The residential and commercial property loss and damages resulting from juvenile firesetting is $240 million per year (Garrison, 2002)
3. Even more alarming is that burn injuries are the second leading cause of accidental death for children under the age of 6, and between 40-50% of children and adolescents admitted for burn treatment were burned in fires they themselves set (FEMA, 1988).
4. The most startling fact is that children under the age of 5 account for nearly 40% of all fire-related deaths, a rate that is more than double that for any other age group (Hall, 2000). Millions of dollars are spent each year to treat burn victims, and while many are severely disfigured physically, no amount of money can compensate for the emotional and mental trauma experienced. (Garrison, 2002)
B. Who are these juvenile offenders?
1. Only within the last 20 years have studies of juvenile firesetting begun to explain the many dynamics and variables associated with this dangerous behavior. These findings have provided a better understanding of how to assess these actions and conduct appropriate
When a case is introduced into court, a judge determines if it should be handled formally or informally. This decision is often based on the severity of the offense, and the youth's law breaking history. (Snyder, 1999) a. Informal case handling involves no formal court order and just the release of the minor to parents or guardians. b. Formal sentencing can include a criminal charge resulting in time served in a juvenile facility, referral to a fire treatment program, or probation.
4. These young arsonists typically do not continue to set fires as they mature, although many partake in excessive fighting, truancy, burglary, and even murder. (Hickey, 2006)
III Conclusion There is much to be learned from these offenders, and although the problem may never be eradicated, our community can become aware of the dangers they may cause. These individuals can teach us much about the workings of a child's brain, and the anatomy of a troubled past. More importantly, they can predict the future and Juvenile firesetters are a specific group of offenders. Only by identifying juvenile firesetters early can intervention techniques hope to prevent continued, escalating criminal behavior. A combative approach to this problem can help ensure the safety of the young offenders and the