The Accuracy of Sex Identification in European Skeletal Remains Using the Phenice Characters
MacLaughlin, SM
Lecturer, Department of Anatomy, United Medical and Dental Schools (Guy's Campus), London, England.

Bruce, MF
Lecturer, Department of Anatomy, Marischal College, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland.


Abstract
Three documented European skeletal series were examined to assess the accuracy and reliability of the pubic variables described by Phenice for correctly identifying the sex of adult human skeletal remains. The accuracy and objectivity of these variables, as reported by Phenice, Kelley, Sutherland and Suchey, and Lovell, could not be confirmed on this European material. In general, the subpubic concavity feature, when used alone, proved to be the most reliable variable for sex identification.
In this study, the level of correct sex identification that could be achieved using the Phenice variables was shown to be significantly affected by the previous experience of the observer.

Keywords:
forensic science, human identification, osteology, Phenice method, physical anthropology

Paper ID: JFS356901384

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Author MacLaughlin SM, Bruce MF Title The Accuracy of Sex Identification in European Skeletal Remains Using the Phenice Characters Symposium , Committee on