Age estimation in forensic anthropology: quantification of observer error in phase versus component-based methods.
The purpose of this study was to assess observer error in phase versus component-based scoring systems used to develop age estimation methods in forensic anthropology. A method preferred by forensic anthropologists in the AAFS was selected for this evaluation (the Suchey-Brooks method for the pubic symphysis). The Suchey-Brooks descriptions were used to develop a corresponding component-based scoring system for comparison. Several commonly used reliability statistics (kappa, weighted kappa, and the intraclass correlation coefficient) were calculated to assess observer agreement between two observers and to evaluate the efficacy of each of these statistics for this study. The linear weighted kappa was determined to be the most suitable measure of observer agreement. The results show that a component-based system offers the possibility for more objective scoring than a phase system as long as the coding possibilities for each trait do not exceed three states of expression, each with as little overlap as possible.
Anatomy Department, Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate, TN.
Natalie R
NR
Shirley
Paula Andrea
PA
Ramirez Montes
D000365:Age Determination by Skeleton / Q000379:methods*; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D018732:Forensic Anthropology; D006801:Humans; D015588:Observer Variation; D011631:Pubic Symphysis / Q000254:growth & development*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results
Suchey-Brooks method; age estimation; forensic anthropology; forensic science; intraclass correlation coefficient; observer bias; observer error; pubic symphysis; weighted kappa