From rosy past to happy and flourishing present: Nostalgia as a resource for hedonic and eudaimonic wellbeing
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2025

Brain Imaging Investigation of the Neural Correlates of Emotional Autobiographical Recollection
Published on: August 26, 2011
Erica G Hepper1, Amelia Dennis2
1School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7XH, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
We review recent evidence of nostalgia's ability to enhance and buffer different types of wellbeing. Nostalgia has been associated with increased hedonic wellbeing (e.g., life satisfaction, happiness) in various contexts. Nostalgia is triggered by and can mitigate against threats to hedonic wellbeing. Nostalgia also increases eudaimonic wellbeing (e.g., perceptions of vitality, environmental mastery, positive relationships) and mitigates threats to eudaimonic wellbeing through varying mechanisms. Two applications of these wellbeing benefits are being explored in recent research: nostalgia can help understand how people buffer negative psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; and is being harnessed for wellbeing interventions. More experimental and longitudinal research is needed to establish and maximize the potential of nostalgia for bolstering resilience.
Related Concept Videos
Autobiographical Memory
Traits, Mood, and Subjective Wellbeing
Neuroticism and...
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Cognitive Development During Adulthood
Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adulthood
Intimacy Versus Isolation in Early Adulthood
Individuals in early...
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification

