The movie “Spent: Looking for Change” depicts people who have decided or been forced to use non-traditional banking. In my opinion, the characters shown in the documentary do not seem irresponsible or uneducated people. They are in certain adverse circumstances that force them to make decisions that can have negative consequences. For example, Melissa and Alex discovered that their child has mental health problems, and Alex’s physical health worsened simultaneously. Unfortunately, the family could not use a banking system since Alex became unemployed (American Express). The decision to acquire a small loan was the last attempt to resolve the most immediate issues. Hence, the choices of the characters are dictated by their need and are far from being irrational.
In the situations when people cannot resort to banking institutions, not only the system of credits should be blamed. The primary reasons for the use of non-traditional debt taking should be found in the administrative resources of the states that prevent its inhabitants from financial stability. First of all, the state must provide a certain degree of financial knowledge since at least some mentioned issues are due to uneducatedness. Next, the state also should be responsible for help to people in adverse conditions, not just leaving them to deal with their problems alone. Therefore, it is important to consider state support as the chief reason for the financial disasters of families and individuals in such situations.
After watching the movie, I have reflected upon it and concluded some thoughts. As such, non-traditional debts are risky, even if they imply small amounts of money. Hence, one should try to use banking and acquire a banking account as soon as possible. Next, one should consider making savings for emergencies as well as educating oneself about financial matters. Finally, there are issues in the administration of the state that need innovation and improvement.
Work Cited
American Express. “Spent: Looking for change (documentary).” YouTube, 2014, Web.