Pyromania Research Paper

Pyromania is a rare disorder that captures the mind to believe that fire eases everyday stress. The urge makes patients feel anxious, aroused, and powerful. This unusual syndrome affects a few thousand victims which makes it hard to detect from the arsonists to actual Pyromaniacs. “Pyromania is more common in men than in women, but when it does affect women they are likely to be of lower intelligence.” (Tuttaford, 2004, para 11). Women with this issue are usually abused sexually and mentally. Female fire starters use Pyromania to release tension suffered from abuse. “Pyromaniacs suffer high levels of stress and, at the same time, have little tolerance for that stress” (Krzeszowski, 1993, para 36). The lighting and presence of fire presents

There are no known causes for this illness in adults. It is believed that most adults diagnosed with this disorder use fire for financial gain, revenge, anger, expression of social or political ideas, improving his or her living conditions, responding to hallucinations, and impaired judgment. It is mostly studied in children and teens and still it is unclear what causes this dreadful disease. For most children, it is stated that antisocial behavior and attitudes, sensation and attention seeking, and lack of social skills are some of the causes. Psychiatrists use a SPECT scan (brain scan that also investigates Parkinson’s disease) to look for abnormalities of blood flow in the brain. Pyromania is a mystery to psychologists and is very difficult to diagnose. Other disorders appear in patients with this syndrome such as substance abuse, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), anxiety, and mood

Some Psychiatrists will use SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) such as Citalopram, Escitalopram, Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, and Sertraline. Sometimes some use a medication prescribed for seizures and migraines called Topiramate. The subject has to make sure to take medication at the same time daily without skipping doses. “Other specialists use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in conjunction with medications which is a procedure that focuses on awareness of unhealthy ways of thinking presented by the patient” (S. Watson, personal communication, March 18, 2016). Professional sessions help find productive ways to deal with stress and anxiety. Pyromania can be treated and controlled with support from family and friends, learning ways to manage stress for example requesting help at home or work when tasks are tough, locating ways to relax, take on a hobby, watch movies or read a good book, limiting caffeine intake, quitting smoking, avoiding drugs and alcohol and, exercise. Deep breathing exercises soothe the Pyromaniac, calming their thoughts of fire. In conclusion, Pyromania is a dreadful disease that can be treated with proper medicine, professional therapy, and stress relief. People with this disease can live productive lives if professional assistance is sought and