Social media observation of ex-partners is associated with greater breakup distress, negative affect, and jealousy

After a romantic breakup, many people observe ex-partners on social media. However, it remains unclear whether observation has downstream consequences for breakup recovery, whether it matters if the observation is active (intentional) or passive (unintentional), and whether attachment anxiety plays a moderating role. The present studies (N = 762) used longitudinal, experimental, and daily diary methods to clarify our understanding. In Study 1, …