A social constructionist perspective was taken to investigate gender differences in financial knowledge, self-efficacy and behavior of 5,329 high school students after studying a financial planning curriculum. Male teens tended to reinforce their existing knowledge, whereas female teens learned significantly more about finances in areas in which they were unfamiliar prior to the curriculum study.

The Outstanding Research Journal Article is chosen for its thorough and appropriate review of the topic addressed, employing solid research methodologies including sound operational definitions, appropriate measuring devices, and adequate statistical analyses. The winning paper provides creative and innovative approaches to using the information in practice.

AFCPE is a professional organization focused on supporting, promoting and advancing the field of financial counseling and planning education. Their membership consists of university and Cooperative Extension educators, military financial counselors, private practitioners, and interest organization and government officials.