These two groups and a matched normal control group were compared on four rating scales (Rathus Assertiveness Schedule, Zung Depression Inventory, Moral Anxiety Questionnaire, and a specially designed Attitudes to Offenses Questionnaire). Arsonists were similar to violent offenders on all demographic indices, except that arsonists were taken under care at an earlier age. Arsonists had a lower incidence of interpersonal aggression, and they rated themselves as less assertive than violent offenders or controls and displayed a greater instability on attitudes toward the seriousness of person and property offenses. There were no differences between arsonists and violent offenders in terms of moral anxiety or depression rating, although both groups scored at the extremes on the moral anxiety scale and were more depressed compared to normals. The results are discussed with reference to the individual and situational factors which may underlie the displaced aggression hypothesis of arson. 3 tables and 10 references. (Author abstract modified)