FINANCIAL LITERACY AND THE FINANCIAL DECISION MAKING OF INDIVIDUALS IN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES

Abstract

Better access to financial literacy programs in underserved communities has the potential to improve financial decision making and to help individuals and families escape poverty. This multimethod dissertation explores some of the challenges of developing financial literacy programs for underserved individuals and provides insights into the cultural and institutional factors that discourage financial literacy and sound financial decision making. This research re-examines the construct of financial literacy, reviews relevant past research, and presents a conceptual model with hypotheses regarding factors that affect financial literacy. To test the model, multiple studies were conducted in underserved communities in rural and urban areas to understand the complexity of the relationship between financial literacy and financial decision making. These studies were supplemented by a series of in-depth interviews with financial literacy experts, community leaders, and underserved individuals. The results indicate the importance of refining both financial literacy instruments and training to rural and urban underserved communities, while also building stronger ties to community leaders and financial institutions.