Full Description
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
Contents
Introduction; Estimation of the Biological Profile & Positive Identification: Death Along the Tracks: The Role of Forensic Anthropology and Social Media in a Homicide Investigation; The Skull in Concrete: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Identification; The Use of Medical Implants to Aid in the Identification Process; Biomechanical Analysis of Long Bones Provides the Crucial Break in Decedent Identification; Race and the Role of Sociocultural Context in Forensic Anthropological Ancestry Assessment; Globalization, Transnationalism, and the Analytical Feasibility of Ancestry Estimation; Forensic Taphonomy: What Forensic Taphonomy Can Do for You: A Case Study in Rural Pennsylvania; Dismembered, Burned, and Dumped: But in What Order? Body in the Barrel: Complex Body Disposal and Recovery; Sealed for Your Protection: A Triple Homicide Involving the Use of a Corrosive Agent to Obscure Identity; Differential Diagnosis in Forensic Entomology: Mites vs. Pathologies and Taphonomy.
