Indebted: How Families Make College Work at Any Cost

The financial pressures of paying for college have a significant impact on middle-class families, leading to hidden consequences and moral conflicts. Caitlin Zaloom's book "Indebted" breaks through the culture of silence surrounding the student debt crisis, exposing the unspoken costs of sending kids to college.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press

The financial pressures of paying for college have a significant impact on the lives and well-being of middle-class families in America. Caitlin Zaloom's book, "Indebted," delves into the hidden consequences of student debt and how it has transformed the most intimate relationships within families. Through her compelling storytelling, Zaloom takes readers into the homes of various families across the nation, shedding light on the moral dilemmas faced by parents as they strive to provide their children with opportunities while navigating the complexities of financing college.

One of the central themes of "Indebted" is the profound moral conflicts that parents face when trying to fulfill their highest parental duty, which is to provide their children with opportunities. Zaloom highlights the sacrifices that parents are often willing to make, including taking on additional debt, working multiple jobs, and sacrificing their own financial stability, to ensure their children's success. However, she also exposes the unintended consequences of these decisions, such as strained relationships, financial stress, and even mental health issues.

Parents and students alike are forced to gamble on the investment of sending their children to college, as the cost of higher education continues to rise. Zaloom argues that the student debt crisis has created a culture of silence and shame surrounding the issue, with many families feeling embarrassed or ashamed to discuss their financial struggles. This silence not only perpetuates the crisis but also prevents individuals from seeking the help and support they need to manage their debt effectively.

"Indebted" is a powerful and eye-opening book that breaks through the culture of silence surrounding the student debt crisis. Zaloom's writing is superb, and her honesty and empathy shine through on every page. She provides a comprehensive analysis of the issue, including the historical roots of student debt, the impact of rising tuition costs, and the policies that have contributed to the crisis. She also offers practical solutions and strategies for families struggling with student debt, such as advocating for more affordable education, promoting financial literacy, and supporting debt forgiveness programs.

In conclusion, the financial pressures of paying for college have a profound impact on the lives and well-being of middle-class families in America. Caitlin Zaloom's book, "Indebted," provides a compelling and honest account of the hidden consequences of student debt and how it has transformed the most intimate relationships within families. Through her storytelling and analysis, Zaloom sheds light on the moral dilemmas faced by parents and students and offers practical solutions for addressing the student debt crisis. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the impact of higher education on American families and the urgent need for reform.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 139 x 217 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691217222