Incarceration and Personal Finance Knowledge: The Education and Experiences of Eight Black Men

• In Event: Youth and Student Voices From the Margins: Advocacy, Access, and Aspirations in the Education System

Abstract

This paper highlights a qualitative action research study employing phenomenological design, Critical Race Theory, and Participatory Action Research to uncover the financial knowledge and experiences of eight Black men who were previously incarcerated. Analysis of the data revealed foundational experiences and the roots of their financial education and social learning in a variety of contexts, including school, prison, and post-incarceration. The data further revealed the impact of their financial education and experiences within themes of wealth as power, attaining legitimacy, and bequests for the next generation. The participants and researchers provided recommendations and methods to provide financial education that resonates with participants whose voices this study centered as well as their communities.

Author

• Lisa Ann Mauthe, MindMoney Method