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Analysis of Human Skeletal Remains from Forensic Contexts

Matthew C. Go

Archaeological Methods: Search and Recovery/Survey and

Excavation

Teeth

Histomorphology

Plexiform bone
Skeletal Anatomy and Identification

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Secondary osteon banding Visual Analyses: The Pelvis

Sex Estimation
Principles
Differences primarily related to size and shape
(morphology), and function such as parturition
Other analyses such as age and stature are sex-specific
Sexual dimorphism different expression between
males and females of the same species (e.g.,
morphology, physiology, behavior)
Humans display little sexual dimorphism compared to
other animals
Degree may also depend on population
Males generally larger and more robust than females
(but with considerable overlap)
Almost impossible in young children

Sex versus Gender

Analyzing Sex
Non-metric (or visual) and Metric methods
Metric methods generally considered more objective,
but visual inspection of the pelvis is the most accurate
sex estimator
Next most accurate is metrics of the long bones, then
the skull

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