Bullying explained by bullies: understanding school violence in Mexico from the aggressors' perspective

This study contributes to the understanding of bullying in Mexico by centering an often-overlooked perspective: that of the aggressors. Employing a deconstructive approach, it examines the retrospective testimonies of thirteen former bullies to explore the complex motivations behind their behavior. The findings reveal that bullying is driven by dysfunctional family and institutional dynamics and exposure to violence. Additionally, the research uncovers poorly managed group identities and power dynamics within school environments, as well as the role of intolerant discourses that normalize social exclusion and violence. These insights underscore the need for interventions beyond punitive measures, emphasizing the importance of active parental involvement and better-trained educators to address the underlying conditions that sustain bullying.