Why Is It So Tough for Some to Exorcise the Ghosts of Their Romantic Pasts?

Why Is It So Tough for Some to Exorcise the Ghosts of Their Romantic Pasts?
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A friend once grumbled that, given the choice, she'd rather see her ex miserable than herself happy.

Few things in life are as traumatic as the end of a long-term, romantic relationship. Nonetheless, many people are able to eventually recover and move on relatively unscathed.

Others, like my friend, aren’t so lucky. Even years later, they remain mired in the pain of the experience. Any reminder of their former partnerwhether it’s a casual mention in conversation or a Facebook photocan elicit profound feelings of sadness, anger, and resentment.

Why is it that some people continue to be haunted by the ghosts of their romantic pasts, struggling to let go of the pain of rejection?

Your beliefs about personality can play a big role in how you'll respond to romantic rejection. (kieferpix/iStock)
Your beliefs about personality can play a big role in how you'll respond to romantic rejection. kieferpix/iStock
Lauren Howe
Lauren Howe
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