Cyberbullying: Arguments, actions, and decisions of bullies and victims in high schools in colima, mexico

Abstract

The research article analyzes of cyberbullying in six secondary schools and four public and private high schools. Interviews were conducted with harassers, victims, students, and teachers, in addition to the recovery: Photos, images, videos, written and voice messages used in the 25 cases where this type of harassment occurred. Starting from the bases of the theory of power, we characterize the asymmetric relationship that prevails between those involved, the threats and counter-threats that are registered, as well as the different resources that are mobilized (coercion, force and violence) to achieve obedience, generating various consequences and damages on the victim. Among the main findings show that: A) stalkers: Seek completefull control of the victim's actions; the cruelty of some acts are related to the power that the aggressor wants to be recognized; a stalker uses violence against more than one victim; they justify their actions as part of the school culture that occurs between peers; b) victims: Fear paralyzes them and nullifies their ability to respond, they do not report for fear of experiencing more aggressions; they suffer permanent abuse that translates into suffering, deterioration in their identity and desire to leave school; women experience more sexual harassment; c) teachers do not know how to proceed and demand training to attend to it. Cyberbullying manifests itself in various ways and grows rapidly in schools, generating criminal subcultures that promote individuals or groups that legitimize their actions as a way to establish their power.