This reaction is rooted in the fact that despite many adults’ perception, young people do understand the harms of social media. The vast majority of them have had firsthand experience of the negative effects of the internet, so they are aware of the dangers and want to help keep each other safe. If anything, they overwhelmingly recognise it.

However, despite this recognition, there is another common sentiment amongst under-16s in response to the ban: the feeling of worry.

According to the consultation, 72% of teenagers expressed worry and anxiety surrounding the new law. The BBC has interviewed teens who vow to keep their access to these platforms, which triggers the question: how can these two seemingly contradicting sentiments exist?

While the question appears complicated, it actually has a rather straight forward answer. Young people know the internet can hurt them, but it has become an essential part of teenage life.