(FAY) Female vs. Male Skeletal Remains Lesson
Female vs. Male Skeletal Remains
Skeletal remains can often be distinguished as male or female by observing specific bones as well as the overall appearance. Male skeletal remains tend to be larger in size, particularly at areas in the bone where muscles attach. The most reliable bone indicator used to predict the sex of the decedent is the pelvis. This is due to the structure of the female pelvis, which has adaptations for childbirth. The skull is also used to help determine sex, but is more subjective and not as reliable as the pelvis. Forensic Anthropologists use measurements, visual comparisons and lists of identifying characteristics to determine the sex of the remains.
Bone Structure of the Pelvis
Examine the bone structure of the pelvis below.
|
|
Male |
Female |
|---|---|---|
|
Pelvis |
Narrow, triangular or heart shaped pelvic inlet Angle at the Sciatic Notch is less than 90° More narrow and deep Sacrum tilted forward Field Thumb Test : If you stick your thumb in the Sciatic Notch and have room to move the thumb around, it is a female pelvis. If your thumb does not have room to move around, it is a male pelvis. Pelvis outlet is small
|
Wider, oval or circular pelvic inlet Angle at the Sciatic Notch is 90° or greater Hip bones flare outward Pelvis is wider and more shallow; adapted to carry a baby and facilitates childbirth Sacrum is tilted backward Pelvis outlet is large |
|
Skull |
Large Mastoid Process Larger skull Greater muscle development and rugged features Square chin Forehead is receding Prominent brow ridges Rounded edges of eye sockets Back corner of Mandible (lower jaw) is about 90°
|
Small Mastoid Process Smaller skull Rounded chin Forehead is more vertical Less defined brow ridges Sharp edges of eye sockets Back corner of Mandible (lower jaw) is greater than 90° |
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