Dear old love: Effects of reflecting on nostalgic memories about ex‐partners on current romantic relationship

Abstract Research on the impact of ex‐romantic partners on current romantic relationships is mainly focused on negative aspects. Here instead we focus on the potential positive influence of reflecting on nostalgic memories of one's ex‐partner. In three studies, we found that reflecting on nostalgic memories of one's ex‐partner increased the perception of current relationship quality (Studies 1– 3) and approach motivation towards the current relationship (Study 3), compared to a control condition. We also tested a potential underlying mechanism—perception of self‐growth. We found that perception of self‐growth mediated the positive effects of reflecting on nostalgic memories about an ex‐partner on perceived current relationship quality (Studies 2 and 3) and approach motivation in the current relationship (Study 3). Implications for research and therapy are discussed.