ABSTRACT
Through a set of unique case studies written by an international group of practicing forensic anthropologists, Case Studies in Forensic Anthropology: Bonified Skeletons prepares students and professionals for the diverse range of cases and challenges they will encounter in the field.
Every forensic anthropology case is unique. Practitioners routinely face new challenges and unexpected outcomes. Courses and introductory texts generally address standard or ideal cases. In practice, however, forensic anthropologists must improvise frequently during forensic archaeological recoveries and laboratory analyses based on case circumstances. Most forensic anthropologists have encountered unconventional cases with surprising results. While these cases act as continuing education for practitioners—better preparing them for future encounters— such learning opportunities may be limited by the extent of personal experiences. This text exposes practitioners and students to a diverse array of case examples they may not otherwise encounter, sharing experiential knowledge and contributing to the advancement the field.
Case Studies in Forensic Anthropology aims to both prepare aspiring forensic anthropologists and inform current practitioners. The cases are interesting and unique, detailing how specific challenges contribute to the body of forensic anthropological knowledge and practice.
Key Features
- Full-color photographs illustrate the scenes and skeletal features
- "Lessons Learned" sections for each case study emphasize take-away points
- Thought-provoking "Discussion Questions" encourage readers to think critically and facilitate group discussions
- Actual case experiences by diverse array of forensic anthropologists who discuss innovative methods and unique challenges
TABLE OF CONTENTS
section Section I|1 pages
Estimation of the Biological Profile and Positive Identification
chapter Chapter 4|10 pages
Biomechanical Analysis of Long Bones Provides the Crucial Break in Decedent Identification
chapter Chapter 5|11 pages
Race and the Role of Sociocultural Context in Forensic Anthropological Ancestry Assessment
section Section II|1 pages
Forensic Taphonomy
chapter Chapter 6|16 pages
Globalization, Transnationalism, and the Analytical Feasibility of Ancestry Estimation
chapter Chapter 7|12 pages
What Forensic Taphonomy Can Do for You: A Case Study in Rural Pennsylvania
chapter Chapter 10|9 pages
Sealed for Your Protection: A Triple Homicide Involving the Use of a Corrosive Agent to Obscure Identity
chapter Chapter 11|8 pages
Differential Diagnosis in Forensic Entomology: Mites versus Pathologies and Taphonomy
section Section III|1 pages
Trauma
chapter Chapter 13|12 pages
Who Pulled the Trigger … First? Bone Biomechanics Recreate the Story Behind a “Police Shooting”
chapter Chapter 14|12 pages
Forensic Anthropological Contributions to Manner of Death in a Case of Multiple Suicidal Gunshot Wounds
chapter Chapter 16|13 pages
Sharp Force Trauma with Subsequent Fire Alteration: A Complicated Case Study
section Section IV|1 pages
Human Rights and Mass Disasters
chapter Chapter 17|8 pages
Forensic Anthropology’s Role in Clarifying Cause of Death in the Appeal of a No Body Homicide Conviction
chapter Chapter 20|10 pages
Sexual Offense in Skeletonized Cadavers: Analysis, Interpretation, Documentation, and Case Report
chapter Chapter 21|8 pages
Making the Best of Limited Resources and Challenges Faced in Human Rights Investigations
section Section V|1 pages
Other Considerations