What are the three principal trends to consider when forming an opinion of a person who is setting fires?

The correct answer identifies three essential trends that are pivotal for forming an opinion regarding individuals who are involved in setting fires.

Materials and methods pertain to what flammable substances are used and the techniques employed to ignite the fire. This can provide insights into the motivations and expertise of the individual. For instance, the use of sophisticated igniting methods or unusual materials might indicate a more calculated approach to arson.

Temporal frequency refers to how often fires are set over a period. Analyzing the frequency can help identify patterns of behavior or escalation, suggesting whether the person has a compulsive tendency or specific triggers for their actions.

Geographic areas encompass the locations where the fires occur. Understanding the pattern of the areas affected by the fires can shed light on the individual’s potential motives, whether they are targeting specific locations for personal reasons or broader patterns in the community.

Together, these three aspects—materials and methods, temporal frequency, and geographic areas—provide a comprehensive framework for assessing a person's arson-related behavior and motives.