Exploring the Psychosocial Contexts of Female and Male Arson Offenders

This study explored gender differences in the psychosocial backgrounds of individuals convicted of arson in Sweden between 2000 and 2010. A total of 100 women and 100 men who had undergone forensic psychiatric investigation were randomly selected. Data covered childhood environment, institutional care, psychiatric history, experiences of victimization, and parenting. While both groups showed substantial psychosocial strain, women exhibited notably higher levels of victimization, more frequent psychiatric inpatient care, and greater involvement with social services concerning their children. These findings underscore the need for trauma-informed and gender-sensitive approaches in forensic assessment, risk evaluation, and treatment of arson offenders.