Which disorder is characterized by a compulsion to set things on fire?

Which disorder is characterized by a compulsion to set things on fire?

• A. Kleptomania
• B. Pyromania
• C. Trichotillomania
• D. Adjustment Disorder

Answer: (B)

This item tests recognition of an impulse-control disorder where the urge to set fires is compulsive. Pyromania involves a deliberate, purposeful fire setting driven by increasing tension or arousal before the act, with relief, gratification, or pleasure after lighting the fire. The behavior is not for monetary gain, revenge, or other external motives, and it tends to recur, causing distress or impairment. Other conditions described fit different patterns: kleptomania is about stealing objects not needed for personal use, trichotillomania is hair pulling, and an Adjustment Disorder is a distress response to a stressful event without a recurrent compulsion to set fires.

This item tests recognition of an impulse-control disorder where the urge to set fires is compulsive. Pyromania involves a deliberate, purposeful fire setting driven by increasing tension or arousal before the act, with relief, gratification, or pleasure after lighting the fire. The behavior is not for monetary gain, revenge, or other external motives, and it tends to recur, causing distress or impairment. Other conditions described fit different patterns: kleptomania is about stealing objects not needed for personal use, trichotillomania is hair pulling, and an Adjustment Disorder is a distress response to a stressful event without a recurrent compulsion to set fires.