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The current study examines the association between fear of bullying and actual behaviour among male prisoners (n =234: 84 adult, 86 young and 66 juvenile). It explores if developmental models of aggression can assist with understanding fear and if there is evidence to support an application of the Applied Fear Response model. Participants completed the Direct and Indirect Prisoner Checklist‐Scaled Revised and the Threat Appraisal Bullying measure. Fear of bullying did not differ across age. There were no significant relationships between fear and actual victimisation or perpetration for juveniles. Fear was a significant predictor of increased emotional and help‐seeking behaviours in juveniles, and inhibited negative behaviours in adults. Fear of bullying was highest among young and juvenile ‘bully‐victims’. The need to account for fear of victimisation as opposed to focusing solely on victimisation experience is outlined, particularly in relation to younger prisoners (i.e. young adults and juvenile offenders). The value of developmental and environmental models in understanding aggression and victim reactions are discussed.