pyromania
UK: ˌpaɪrəʊˈmeɪniə | US: ˌpaɪroʊˈmeɪniə
n. an obsessive desire to set things on fire
n. a psychological disorder characterized by compulsive fire-setting
The word "pyromania" combines Greek roots to vividly depict a compulsive disorder. "Pyro-" derives from pyr (fire), used in scientific terms like "pyrotechnics." "-Mania" comes from mania (madness or frenzy), seen in words like "kleptomania." Together, they form a term describing an irrational obsession with fire, first recorded in the early 19th century to classify pathological behavior.
The suspect's history of pyromania led investigators to link him to the arson cases.
Pyromania is often associated with impulse control disorders.
Firefighters receive training to identify signs of pyromania in repeated arson incidents.
Treatment for pyromania may include cognitive-behavioral therapy.
His fascination with flames escalated into full-blown pyromania.