Is pyromania classified as a motive for starting a fire?

Pyromania is primarily classified as a mental disorder characterized by an uncontrollable impulse to start fires. Individuals with pyromania experience tension or arousal before committing the act, followed by feelings of relief or gratification afterward. This condition highlights that the behavior is not usually driven by a clear, rational motive, such as financial gain or revenge, which are more typical of arson for personal reasons.

Understanding pyromania in this context emphasizes the psychological and behavioral aspects rather than defining it strictly as a motive or cause. It’s recognized as a significant mental health issue that requires professional intervention rather than merely an act of fire-setting associated with intent or motivation, differentiating it from intentional acts of arson motivated by socioeconomic or personal factors.