Exploring firesetting in an Intellectually Disabled population
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring firesetting in an Intellectually Disabled population: a grounded theory approach.
IRAS ID
166339
Contact name
Stacey-Marie Campbell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Canterbury Christ Church University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 26 days
Research summary
This study hopes to explore the circumstances which may lead to an individual with an intellectual disability setting a fire. Firesetting is the focus of the study as this is a potentially life threatening behaviour which could endanger not only the individual but members of the general public. Consideration of the existing research has identified this population do engage in firesetting but the methods used have predominantly involved questionnaires. It is felt that richer information may be gained through verbally interviewing the individual to allow them to discuss what was important for them before, during and after setting a fire. This study will use a grounded theory approach to verbally enquire about the experience of firesetting for individuals who have previous engaged in firesetting and are known to a learning disability forensic service. Individuals who are identified as having an intellectual disability and who have previously engaged in firesetting will be invited to meet with the researcher to talk about the study. If they express an interest in taking part they will be met again and asked to provide informed consent. The individual will then be invited to participate in an interview for approximately one hour. The length of the interview will be adapted if required. The results of the study aim to help the researcher form an explanation about the circumstances that may lead to a person with an intellectual disability engage in firesetting. This explanation may help to inform the psychological treatment needs of these individuals.
REC name
London - Dulwich Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/LO/0364
Date of REC Opinion
5 May 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion