Forensic facial reconstruction
Forensic Facial Reconstruction
Forensic facial reconstruction (also known as forensic facial approximation) is the process of recreating the face of an individual (whose identity is often not known) from their skeletal remains through an amalgamation of artistry, anthropology, osteology, and anatomy. It is commonly used to aid in the identification of deceased individuals when other physical characteristics are unusable.
Pronunciation
Forensic: /fəˈrɛnsɪk/ Facial: /ˈfeɪʃəl/ Reconstruction: /ˌriːkənˈstrʌkʃən/
Etymology
The term "forensic" comes from the Latin word "forensis," meaning "of or before the forum." In ancient Rome, the forum was where lawmaking debates were held, but it also was where criminal cases were heard. Therefore, the term forensic comes to mean an argumentative exercise.
The term "facial" is derived from the Middle French "facial," and from the Medieval Latin "facialis," from "facies" meaning "face."
"Reconstruction" is derived from the Latin "reconstructus," the past participle of "reconstruere," from "re-" + "construere" to build.
Related Terms
- Anthropology: The scientific study of humans, human behavior and societies in the past and present.
- Osteology: The study of the structure and function of the skeleton and bony structures.
- Anatomy: The branch of science concerned with the bodily structure of humans, animals, and other living organisms.
- Forensic Anthropology: The application of the anatomical science of anthropology and its various subfields, including forensic archaeology and forensic taphonomy, in a legal setting.
Process
Forensic facial reconstruction is used when other forms of identification, such as DNA analysis or dental records, are not available. The process involves the use of the skull as a base for recreating the individual's face by applying markers to indicate tissue depth at specific points on the skull, and then applying clay to create the shape of the face. The final result is an approximation of what the individual might have looked like in life.
Limitations
While forensic facial reconstruction can provide a close approximation of an individual's appearance, it is not a perfect method. Factors such as age, body weight, and individual facial features can significantly affect the accuracy of the reconstruction.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Forensic facial reconstruction
- Wikipedia's article - Forensic facial reconstruction
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