When the economy slows, a vicious cycle begins. People cut back on spending, so companies sell less and see their profits shrink. Workers are laid off, leading to even less consumer spending. With lower incomes, people pay less in taxes, and the government can't fund its programs and services, reducing the quality of life for its citizens, who grow ever more fearful and less likely to spend money. Now, more than ever, young people need to understand the mechanisms of recession—how it begins, what happens when it takes hold, and how and when recovery begins. Armed with good information and useful knowledge, readers will feel less bewildered by economic events that seem beyond their control and better able to plan ahead for inevitable dips in the business cycle. Forewarned is forearmed, and knowledge is power. This book offers a highly empowering insight into the inner workings of the economy and the secrets to weathering even the worst recessionary storm.