Since the standard approach to consumer education is based upon the economic situation of the average American and since the degree of American Indian reservation poverty is substantially greater than that of other groups, it is clear that there is a need for Indian oriented consumer education. Based upon a long established credit system., reservation economics traditionally have centered on the trading post. Dependent upon and exploited by white traders, reservation Indians have been subject to patronization by the traders who, serving as liaisons to the outside world, have controlled Indian communications, including Federal checks and employment opportunities. As a landlord leasing out Indian lands to local non-Indians, the reservation Indian has been the recipient of an annual lump sum which has proliferated a "boom or bust" economy, often putting the Indian in the position of having to borrow from his lessee. The extended family of the reservation Indian contributes to the boom or bust economy, for a man is expected to share whatever he has, whenever he has it, with his extended family. Indian reservation consumer education should: (1) be part of a long range, comprehensive economic development strategy; (2) utilize community and tribal organizations as delivery mechanisms; (3) utilize existing local programs and resources; and (4) include community involvement. (JC)