The near-collapse of the American financial system has led to a search for its causes and ways to prevent it from happening again. Many political leaders blame at least some of the sub-prime mortgage crisis on mistakes caused by financially "illiterate" consumers and propose to solve that problem with mandatory classes in personal finance.…

In the midst of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, there exists a deficit of compelling financial education curricula in urban schools that serve financially vulnerable working-class students. Part of a design-based research investigation aimed at creating culturally-relevant financial literacy learning environments, this study…

Earning, spending, saving and investing, and using credit are important aspects of money management that teens need to understand as they move into adulthood. Family and consumer sciences (FCS) professionals have a long history of addressing this important life skill. This brief article describes the High School Financial Planning Program (HSFPP),…

Explains how instruction about the Consumer Price Index can help students learn about the effects of inflation, how to change patterns of consumption, and the effects of consumer choices. (SK)

Explores recent developments in home banking systems and discusses the results of market tests, efforts of major system producers, and obstacles to the success of electronic banking systems. (SW)

Using the literature of psychology, consumer behavior, and behavioral finance, a series of hypotheses is presented that account for consumer choices of managed over index mutual funds. Results indicate a need for consumer education to increase awareness of the benefits of index investing. (SK)

This booklet on managing credit, 1 in a series of 12, covers all the basic aspects of personal- and family-money management. Suitable for use by high school and college students as well as adults, this handbook tells how to establish credit, determine credit limits, and maintain a favorable credit history. Section 1 on understanding consumer…

This booklet on clothing, 1 in a series of 12 covers all the basic aspects of personal- and family-money management. Suitable for use by high school and college students as well as adults, this handbook gives wardrobe planning, buying, and care information. The first three sections consider the functions of clothing, the importance of…

In August 2005, the National Endowment for Financial Education® (NEFE®) hosted a groundbreaking event, bringing educators from a variety of disciplines together to explore how to make financial literacy programs more effective. This was the first symposium ever to combine financial educators with leaders from other fields--neuroscience, change…

This booklet on household equipment, 1 in a series of 12, covers all the basic aspects of personal- and family-money management. Suitable for use by high school and college students as well as adults, this handbook offers information to help buyers purchase household equipment that is within their budget. Section 1 discusses managing equipment…

A study was made of the use of consumer credit by Home Demonstration Club (HDC) members in Blount County, Tennessee, as a basis for planning educational programs. Data were secured by group interviews from 237 Home Demonstration Club members representing 24 clubs. The data were classified according to the members use of consumer credit: those who…

Article discusses various means consumers can utilize to stretch personal and family resources to cover needs and as many of their wants as possible. (Editor)

Systems concepts are applied to family financial planning using a functional interpretation of systems analyses. The framework can help professionals researching family financial behavior and its outcomes, planning programs, and offering financial services. It can also be used by families in their own financial planning. (Author/JOW)

Describes the concerns of consumer advocates regarding consumers with debt problems, the deceptive practices of some credit counseling services, and the accuracy of their advice. Recommends changes in credit counseling services and protections for consumers using them. (JOW)

Discusses the need for homebuyer education in light of the increasing availability of assistance programs aimed at traditionally underserved groups such as minorities and low income groups. (Contains 10 references.) (JOW)