If you live in a violent family, the child is violent: study of school violence among primary school teachers in Tarapacá

Abstract

School violence in the Tarapacá region has increased in recent years, affecting the coexistence and well-being of students and teachers. This study aimed to analyze the perceptions of elementary school teachers regarding their role in identifying and supporting students with violent behavior. A qualitative approach was used through semi-structured interviews with teachers from public, subsidized, and private schools in Iquique, Alto Hospicio, and Pica. Content analysis allowed us to identify patterns in their experiences and discourses. The results show a widespread perception of increased physical, verbal, and psychological violence, along with tensions among staff members. Teachers attribute these behaviors to family factors, the normalization of aggression, and a lack of social-emotional skills. They also point to limitations in their training, poor institutional coordination, and largely reactive protocols. The conclusion is that addressing school violence requires more effective coordination between schools and families, better teacher training, and stronger prevention strategies to promote safe educational environments.