OUT OF SIGHT, OUT OF MIND - AN EXPLORATORY EXAMINATION OF INSTITUTIONALIZATION AND CONSUMPTION

Despite rapid growth and increased levels of consumer choice within th e institutionalized population in the United States, the consumption b ehaviors of nearly 3.5 million people, and those who support them both during and after institutionalization, have been largely ignored. Thr ough analysis of pertinent literature and the presentation of findings from a series of in-depth interviews and observational studies, the a uthors examine the widespread effects of institutionalization on the c onsumer behavior of institutionalized and post-institutionalized perso ns, as well as of their friends and family members. The authors offer suggestions as to how marketers, consumer researchers, and public poli cymakers can more effectively and responsibly respond to the needs of consumers affected by institutionalization.