Evaluating Reliability of the Megyesi Total Body Scoring Method on People of Color

This thesis investigates the reliability of Megyesi et al.'s (2005) Total Body Score (TBS) method in assessing decomposition, focusing on people of color (POC). Using a semi-experimental design, it analyzes a dataset of decomposition photos from the Texas State University Forensic Anthropology Center, comprising 5 POC and 5 White donors. Observation packets, distributed to 21 participants, follow established protocols for TBS scoring, with interrater reliability assessed using Fleiss' Kappa and weighted Cohens’ Kappa. Furthermore, correlation analysis examines the relationship between TBS scores for White individuals and POC. The study also evaluates participants' understanding and application of the TBS methodology through the percentage of correct answers. By investigating potential biases and factors influencing agreement levels among raters, including participant backgrounds and subconscious biases, the research aims to refine forensic anthropology assessments, particularly in a diverse population.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Anthropology

Grantor

Texas State University

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Gutierrez, Eliana

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Wescott, Daniel J.

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Cunningham, Deborah L.
• Hamilton, Michelle D.

• anthropology
• diversity
• decomposition
• total body scoring

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10877/20394

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:digital.library.txst.edu:10877/20394