We've become a nation of moolahphobics- people who fear managing their money.
Few parents talk openly to their kids about family finances.
In many households the topic of money is strictly forbidden. In fact, most people know more about their parents' and neighbors' sex lives than about their personal finances. Our parents aren't to blame. However, negative financial experiences we have in childhood can radically effect the way we manage money as adults. Few American schools teach the important skills needed to save money, maintain bank accounts, set goals, and budget.