Answer to Question #290116 in Finance for Kelsey Jand

Question

In this homework activity you will examine what it is like living paycheck to paycheck.

Instructions: Go to playspent.org. Click on Continue to Spent on the right side of the screen to start the game and play it all the way through. 

TIP: Keep an eye on the left-hand bar which keeps track of your progress and includes 3 options to get more money during the month.       

Question: Describe a scenario that forced you to wrestle with your values. What was your ultimate decision and how do you feel about it? Explain.

Answer 1

Scenerio

On day 5, I ran out of coins while playing. Because of the game's demonstration, I learned a lot. It illustrates the hardships of poverty by physically making the same decisions that a person of lesser means would have to make on a daily basis. Plus, it's really well-designed for its era, especially with its depiction of real-life scenarios (such as a phone call from your bank) and the fast declining financial amount you see with every decision you make.

Ultimate decison: opportunity cost

Individuals can play the game to see what life decisions would be like if they did not have enough money and had to live paycheck to paycheck. It delves into the specifics of many costs related with living independently, such as healthcare, rent, and vehicle maintenance. I had to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of activities like spending time with friends or assisting neighbors. Overall, the game is viewed as a competitive game by those who participate in it, yet it does build empathy.