Nostalgia supports a meaningful life

Curr Opin Psychol. 2023 Feb:49:101520. doi: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101520. Epub 2022 Nov 26.

Abstract

We review research on the role of nostalgia in supporting the ability to find, maintain, and restore meaning in life. We consider evidence that nostalgia promotes aintaining and restoring meaning by protecting against meaning threats, repairing meaning in the face of challenges, and generally compensating for lack of meaning. We also review evidence that nostalgia'' potency to support meaning has positive implications for advancing psychological well-being and adaptive human functioning. Finally, we propose future research important for establishing the applicability of nostalgia as a strategy or intervention to facilitate meaning-making and support psychological health.

Keywords: Meaning in Llfe; Meaning-Mmking; Nostalgia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Mental Health*
  • Psychological Well-Being*