Suggestions have come from U. S. and Dutch researchers that if you feel excluded, watching a movie you loved in college or eating a food from your childhood may make you feel better.

Study authors Katherine E. Loveland at Arizona State University, Dirk Smeesters at Erasmus University, The Netherlands and Naomi Mandel at Arizona State University, say, "Have you ever wondered why it is that you are in the mood to watch an old episode of 'Friends,'" rather than your current favorite TV show? Or why you are suddenly craving an Otter Pop, a summery treat you haven't eaten since you were a kid?"

A series of five experiments was conducted by the researchers in which they found the key to preferring nostalgic products is the need to belong.

The study authors say in a statement, "Whenever a situation arises in which people feel a heightened need to belong to a group, or generally need to feel socially connected, they will show a corresponding higher preference for nostalgic products."

The Journal of Consumer Research will publish the study in October. (With Inputs from Agencies)