Forensic Anthropology Training Manual

Forensic Anthropology Training Manual, fourth edition serves as a practical reference tool and a framework for training in forensic anthropology. It introduces readers to the field of forensic anthropology, including methods for identifying, recovering, and analyzing human bone in medicolegal contexts. An introductory chapter situates forensic anthropology within the forensic sciences and its historical framework. Much of the first half of the volume covers bone biology, growth and development of the human skeleton, and skeletal and dental anatomy. The second half of the volume focuses on practical skills and methodological approaches for human bone identification, field recovery, taphonomy, estimation of the postmortem interval, laboratory preparation and analysis, and professional results. The final chapter describes the work of forensic anthropologists in large-scale applications such as mass disasters and human rights contexts.

Upon completing this book, readers will be able to:

• Understand the role of forensic anthropology within the broader forensic sciences.
• Develop a strong foundation in human skeletal anatomy, including bone biology and growth and development of the human skeleton.
• Explain how skeletal and dental anatomy contribute to the physical description and personal identification of human remains.
• Identify anatomical differences between human and nonhuman bone.
• Understand the basics of field recovery techniques, including surface survey and excavation.
• Explain how taphonomic analysis is used to estimate the postmortem interval and evaluate postmortem contexts.
• Apply skeletal techniques to reconstruct the biological profile and identify the effects of disease and trauma on bone.
• Understand the requirements for report writing and expert witness testimony in a court of law.