Enuresis, Fire Setting, and Animal Cruelty in Male Adolescent Delinquents: A Triad Predictive of Violent Behavior

Abstract

A triad of behavioral symptoms including enuresis, fire setting, and animal cruelty has been considered highly predictive of adult male violence. The present study reviews the triad hypothesis in light of extensive case materials from six triad-present aggressive violent male adolescents. In addition to confirming the predictive usefulness of the triad, this investigation found marked personality arrest present in each subject. The case material is discussed from a variety of viewpoints, including the triad's application as a screening device for the prediction of dangerousness.