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