Nostalgia's Impact on the Perception of the Past and Future

Authors

Sara Lazo, Kean UniversityFollow

Publication Date

2-1-2026

Document Type

Research Article and Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects nostalgia may have on the perceptions of the past and future. Nostalgia has always been perceived as a positive psychological tool for hope and fulfillment, but is also viewed negatively for its distortions of the past. To observe its effects, a survey was sent via Microsoft Teams which included 7 statements where participants were asked to either agree or disagree using a number scale of 1-5, with1 being strongly disagree and 5 being strongly agree. Results yielded that nostalgia perceives the past more positively and the future negatively. Additionally, results indicated a positive correlation between hopelessness and nostalgia in regard to the future. To conclude, nostalgia plays a role in the idealization and distortion of the past by reflecting solely on its good moments rather than negative ones. As a result, individuals may feel a stronger desire to return to the past as the future can never attain standards felt before. For future nostalgic studies, I would recommend a larger sample size to minimize biases and establish stronger conclusions. Additionally, I would recommend a wider age demographic to establish more variety between ages and results.

Recommended Citation

Lazo, Sara (2026) "Nostalgia's Impact on the Perception of the Past and Future," The Kean Review: Journal in Student Research: Vol. 1: Iss. 1, Article 4.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.kean.edu/the-kean-review/vol1/iss1/4