Delving into the mind of an arsonist

Amid a summer plagued by arson-induced wildfires, authorities in Cyprus are grappling with understanding the motives behind these destructive acts and how to prevent them. Recent incidents, including a 27-year-old man confessing to setting multiple fires in Aradippou over personal disputes, highlight the human element in these disasters.

According to a report by PAvlos Neophytou in yesterday's Kathimerini, the Cyprus Fire Service has identified malicious arson in significant fires, including those in Ayios Sylas, Limassol, and the Vretsia community in Paphos district. According to Andreas Kapardis, Professor Emeritus of Criminology at the University of Cyprus, arson motives range from revenge and financial disputes to behavioral disorders like pyromania.

Dr. George Mikellidis, a psychiatrist at the University of Nicosia, explained that arsonists often have difficulty with self-restraint and impulse control, low self-esteem, and a desire for intense emotional experiences. Disorders such as antisocial personality disorder and borderline personality disorder are common among arsonists, who may use fire-setting as a means of expression or attention-seeking.

Despite convictions, arson remains a crime with a low detection rate due to the ease with which perpetrators can flee the scene. Kapardis emphasized the importance of deterrent sentences and the role of courts in imposing strict penalties. Mikellidis highlighted the need for better cooperation between criminologists and psychiatrists, multidisciplinary analysis of behaviors, and psychoeducation for citizens to prevent such acts.

Addressing the specific issue of pyromania, Mikellidis noted that treatment options include psychotherapy, medication, and group therapy. Pyromaniacs, who often seek help after repeated incidents, make up a small percentage of arsonists but are generally more willing to receive treatment.

The integration of psychiatric care and criminological analysis, combined with public education and robust legal deterrents, is crucial in addressing the root causes of arson in Cyprus and preventing future incidents. As the nation continues to combat these fires, understanding the psychological profiles of arsonists and implementing comprehensive prevention strategies remain paramount.