The words “arsonist” and “pyromaniac” are often blurred and
used in similar usages. However, they differ in their meaning, and the mindset
of the person varies considerably in both cases.
The Arsonist
An arsonist is a person who sets fire to someone else’s
property with an intention of revenge. It is an act done by a person with a
criminal mindset who is out to satisfy his vengeance. According to the American
Heritage Dictionary, arson is defined as “a criminal act of burning of the property
or building of another person undertaken due to malice,” or “burning of
personal property for improper purposes.” Arson is considered to be a major
source of property damage in many nations. According to a study done in
Australia, there is a major outbreak of fire about every hour per day which
amounts to a loss of about $157 million annually. This monetary loss amounts to
about a million in the U.S.
Most arsonists are people with a troubled childhood such as
divorced parents and abuse and alcoholism. An arsonist’s behavior may also be
followed by terrorists as it is a simple and quick method of destruction and
cause loss of human lives along with monetary losses.
Arson is considered to be a serious charge by law
enforcement. Charges of arson may lead to severe penalties.
The Pyromaniac
A pyromaniac is a person who commits the crimes following a
wave of impulse. They suffer from an impulse control disorder which pushes them
to accomplish such acts. According to the American Psychiatric Association, a
person may be categorized as a pyromaniac if he or she intentionally starts a
fire on at least two occasions. The symptoms related to this condition, as
described by the Association, are excitement and tension before committing the
act and a feeling of gratification and relief afterwards. A pyromaniac has an
obsession towards fire. It may lead to threatening results because such a
person may not be able to analyze the degree of loss of life or property due to
the resulting fire.
A pyromaniac is a rare disorder. A study proves that only two
per cent of all the fire-setting behaviors committed are attributed to
pyromania. The prognosis of this condition is also poor. Also, most pyromaniacs
are men.
The differences between the two are described very creatively
by Manny Francis, III.
“You see, the
major difference between you and me,” said one friend to another, “is I don’t
want to set the world on fire. I just want to watch it burn.”
Summary:
1)
An arsonist has a criminal motivation or a feeling of
revenge while a pyromaniac is a psychological disorder.
2)
An arsonist’s behavior is common while pyromania is a
rare disorder.
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