Have you ever beenjealousof their previous romantic partners?

Have you ever compared yourself to their ex-partners and felt insecure?

If so, you may be experiencing retroactive jealousy.

jealous partner looking at their partner’s phone

IherPhoto / Getty Images

Retroactive jealousy is when you have an unhealthy preoccupation with your partners romantic history.

Below, Dr. Romanoff outlines the impact of retroactive jealousy on your mental health and your relationship.

Fixating on your partners past can affect your ability to enjoy the present with them.

You might find yourself feeling stressed and anxious, which is a difficult and uncomfortable state to be in.

Thoughts of retroactive jealousy often tend to be representations of your own worries andinsecurities.

When you idealize others, you are essentially elevating them and devaluing yourself.

Jealousy can act like a self-fulfilling prophecy thatsabotages your relationship.

2018;33(13):2118-2129. doi:10.1177/0886260515622572