Forensic Anthropology: Current Methods and Practice

The third edition of Forensic Anthropology: Current Methods and Practice presents modern approaches and analytic techniques in the field of forensic anthropology. The book introduces readers to the principles and application of forensic anthropology with an emphasis on the integration of osteological, odontological, and archaeological methods for analyzing skeletal remains.

The book begins with the fundamentals of human osteology and odontology, then delves into examination and documentation methodologies, issues of medicolegal significance, and the nuances of forensic taphonomy. The text offers detailed insight into forensic archaeology, including scene processing methods and techniques specific to skeletal processing, resolving commingling, and preserving remains. Analytical methods for the estimation of sex, population affinity, age, and stature; individual skeletal variation; and analysis of skeletal trauma are also introduced. The book also addresses personal identification processes in forensic contexts and the role of forensic anthropology in humanitarian and human rights investigations.

The third edition features updates to approaches and practices throughout, as well as updated and expanded case studies in each chapter that reflect real-world practice.

Forensic Anthropology is well suited for courses and programs in forensic anthropology, forensic science, and biological anthropology at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Angi M. Christensen is a forensic anthropologist at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Laboratory. She holds a Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of Tennessee and is certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA).

Nicholas V. Passalacqua is an associate professor and the director of the forensic anthropology program at Ohio State University. He is a cofounder and editor-in-chief of Forensic Anthropology. He holds a Ph.D. in anthropology from Michigan State University and is certified by the ABFA.

Eric J. Bartelink is a professor of biological and forensic anthropology and the co-director of the Human ID Lab at California State University, Chico. He holds a Ph.D. in biological anthropology from Texas A&M University and is certified by the ABFA.