Medizinische Universität Graz Austria/Österreich - Forschungsportal - Medical University of Graz
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Adamec, J; Schöpfer, J; Hofer, P; Pittner, S; Graw, M; Monticelli, F.
The slap in the face. Part 1-General aspects and biomechanics
RECHTSMEDIZIN. 2020; 30(1): 1-7.
Doi: 10.1007/s00194-019-00362-3
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- Co-Autor*innen der Med Uni Graz
- Hofer Peter
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- Abstract:
- Introduction In (alleged) violent offences a differentiation is often made between fist punches and slaps with the flat of the hand. Furthermore, not infrequently terms such as face slap (swipe, whack etc.) are used but have no clear and generally accepted meaning. In addition, there are no reliable scientific data on the intensity or the potential for injury of such acts of violence. The aim of the present study was to investigate and present the aspects of the phenomenon slap in the face essential for a mechanical analysis of the trauma. Material and methods A survey was conducted with a total of 30 volunteers for their individual understanding of the term slap in the face, in particular with respect to the term punch with the flat of the hand. Furthermore, a measurement of impact-relevant parameters (impact force over time, impact velocity) in the biomechanical laboratory was performed with the same volunteers. From the measurement results, the main impact parameters (impulse, effective mass) were calculated and differences between various groups were statistically evaluated. Results There were clear differences in the understanding of the term slap in the face and, correspondingly, in the biomechanical characteristics of the blows, which covered a wide range from very light contact to intensive impact. Furthermore, there were expected differences in the impact severity between women and men and between the dominant and nondominant hands. Discussion In the forensic evaluation of blows, descriptions such as slap in the face are worthless. Instead, in each individual case the specific characteristics of the blow must be ascertained. Considering the measured impact parameters in the context of known biomechanical tolerance in the head region, not only banal injuries but also possibly more severe injuries might result from such impacts.
- Find related publications in this database (Keywords)
- Slapping
- Open hand stroke
- Assault
- Effective mass
- Impulse