Forensic anthropology and, more broadly, the forensic sciences have only recently begun to acknowledge the importance of lived gender identity in the resolution of forensic cases, the epidemic of anti-transgender violence, and the need to seek practical solutions. The current literature suggests that forensic anthropologists are becoming aware of these issues and are working toward efforts to improve identification of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) persons. The scope of the problem, however, is not limited to methodology and instead can be traced to systemic anti-trans stigma ingrained within our cultural institutions. As such, we call on forensic anthropologists to counteract cisgenderism and transphobia and promote gender equity and inclusion in their practice. In this paper, we identify three areas in which forensic anthropologists may be positioned to intervene on cisgenderist practices and systems: in casework, research, and education. This paper aims to provide strategies for forensic anthropologists to improve resolution of TGD cases, produce more nuanced, gender-informed research, and promote gender equity and inclusion in the field.

This paper outlines advances in biocultural approaches to anthropology by discussing anthropological approaches to understanding stress, how anthropologists have typically measured stress, and why it matters for anthropology and beyond. We discuss the application of common quantification techniques such as the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and biomarkers of psychosocial stress from abnormal hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis activity. We highlight case studies that demonstrate the utility of a biocultural approach to stress across a range of topics—(i) childhood effects, (ii) non-human animals, (iii) depression and anxiety, (iv) migration, and (v) religion—as well as the complexities in the relationship between perceived and biological stress. We conclude by highlighting several areas where we have seen significant advances and point to approaches in other disciplines that anthropology might incorporate to its benefit.