This study investigates how regime experiences during the formative (impressionable) years influence democratic support in countries experiencing democratic backsliding. Drawing on social survey data from 1995 to 2023 across 21 backsliding countries, I apply various attitudinal development theories to argue that backsliding during the formative years shapes democratic support later in life. I posit that, during these formative years, the effects of backsliding on democratic support is contingent upon (i) regime performance (economic or political) and (ii) individual status within the backsliding regime. By comparing age cohorts in backsliding democracies, I explore how those socialized during their formative years in a democracy differ from those in a backsliding regime. I hypothesize that positive regime performance during formative years in a democracy enhances democratic support, while similar experiences in a backsliding regime reduce democratic support. Conversely, I propose that negative regime experiences lead to increased democratic support for individuals socialized under a backsliding regime, compared to those raised in a democratic regime. Finally, I hypothesize that being a regime loser under backsliding amplifies support for democracy, suggesting the role of nostalgia for the previous regime.