Although not every U.S. citizen holds (or held) a problem mortgage, the mortgage-based credit crisis led to a recession that has affected a large proportion of Americans. In addition to losing jobs and having difficulty finding new ones, many people are postponing or reconsidering typical American dreams, such as marrying, having children, and buying a home.
Consider how the financial crisis has affected you or others you know. Your instructor may ask you to post your thoughts on a class discussion board or to discuss them with other students during class time. Use these questions to get started: