Research the current state of U.S. consumers with regards to trends in our outstanding balances of consumer credit. Then, respond to the following questions:

• How much consumer credit (do not include mortgages) does the average household use?
• Is the amount increasing or decreasing?
• Why do we use credit?
• In your opinion, is the average amount of credit being used "reasonable"? Explain.

You must cite your sources. Your response should be at least one page (size 12 font, double spaced) in length. Be sure to respond in a business-like manner using proper spelling, grammar and sentence structure.