bullying occurs because of a power imbalance, a more powerful individual uses aggression deliberately and repeatedly against a weaker person
Researchers have traditionally viewed bullying as a maladaptive behaviour ,,for example the result of poor social skills or childhood abuse. however our evolutionary ancestors may have used bullying as an adaptive strategy to increase chances of survival
For example it helps us acquire resources and look after themselves and their offspring/ mates, creates more opportunities for reproduction and passing on genes
Volk et al- Characteristics associated with bullying behaviour are attractive to the opposite sex.
in males it suggests dominance, acquire resources and ward off rivals. therefore such aggressive behaviour would be genetically inherited → greater reproductive success