Nostalgia and Self-Expansion: A Study Based on Self-Determination Theory

Linking nostalgia to self-expansion, Study 1 found a correlational mediation chain from nostalgia to basic need satisfaction, and then relational but not non-relational self-expansion for individuals in romantic relationships. Not limiting participant types, Study 2 manipulated nostalgia and found an indication for the same mediation, albeit on non-relational self-expansion instead.