@article{ref1,
title="The positive aspects of fire use: a grounded theory of the experiences of non-criminalised fire users",
journal="Journal of forensic practice",
year="2021",
author="Horsley, Faye K.",
volume="23",
number="4",
pages="317-331",
abstract="PURPOSE Psychological research on fire has focussed primarily on its misuse in the form of arson and firesetting, which reflects a tradition in forensic psychology for focussing on risk and pathological behaviour. However, this is inconsistent with the strengths-based approach because it fails to account for positive aspects of fire and law-abiding/ healthy interactions with fire. This study aims to explore the psychology of non-criminalised forms of fire use. It is predicated on a novel, dimensional, conceptualisation of fire-related behaviour - the continuum of fire use (CoFU; Horsley, 2020, 2021). <br><br>DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 adults who use fire in law-abiding forms. Data were analysed using techniques informed by grounded theory. Steps were taken to ensure reliability and validity, including a Cohen's Kappa calculation, which indicated an agreement level of 0.8 between two raters. <br><br>FINDINGS Four core themes were identified relating to the benefits of fire on psychological well-being, namely, immediate gratification; hope and empowerment; self-concept and emotional security. Research limitations/implications Drawing on findings from this study, a theoretical framework of the psychology of non-criminalised fire use is presented. This is a preliminary conceptualisation and more work is needed to address this under-researched topic. Practical implications The findings can inform the work of forensic practitioners. They highlight the importance of considering service users' positive interactions with fire, alongside maladaptive/ criminal use. This has implications for the assessment of fire setters, as well as rehabilitative approaches. Social implications It is argued in this paper that a society-wide approach is key to firesetting reduction. More specifically, findings can inform the development and refinement of early intervention programmes, which focus on supporting young people to develop a healthy relationship with fire. <br><br>ORIGINALITY/VALUE To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is the first to explore the psychology of non-criminalised forms of fire use. It is predicated on a novel, dimensional, conceptualisation of fire-related behaviour - the continuum of fire use (CoFU; Horsley, 2020, 2021a, 2021b).<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="2050-8794",
doi="10.1108/JFP-05-2021-0028",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/JFP-05-2021-0028"
}