The Firesetting and Forensic Mental Health Lab is based in the School of Psychology at Victoria University of Wellington, under the leadership of Dr Nichola Tyler. We are a research group that are primarily interested in the psychology of deliberate firesetting/arson and issues related to mental health across forensic contexts. This includes topics such as examining the aetiology of deliberate firesetting/arson; developing and evaluating effective assessment, prevention and intervention initiatives for deliberate firesetting/arson; understanding the mental health needs of those involved with and/or working in the Criminal Justice System, and the role of mental health in offending behaviour and rehabilitation.
FFMH is led by Dr Nichola Tyler who moved to Victoria University of Wellington from the UK in July 2019. Therefore to date, the majority of Nichola’s research has focused on examining firesetting and forensic mental health issues in the UK context. Since moving to New Zealand, Nichola continues to conduct research in the above areas within the New Zealand context. However, also collaborates with researchers and practitioners internationally on areas of interest to the lab.
We welcome collaboration with professionals both within New Zealand and internationally, including services who work with end users. We also welcome contact from postgraduate students who are interested in being involved in research being conducted by the lab.
Firesetting and Forensic Mental Health Lab 