Abstract

CASCANTE-VINDAS, Roberto. Theoretical-Methodological Foundations of Financial Education: An Analysis of Regulated Entities in Costa Rica. Espiga [online]. 2025, vol.24, n.50, pp.66-110. ISSN 2215-454X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.22458/re.v24i50.6030.

This article presents part of the results from the research project “Theoretical-Methodological Foundations of Financial Education in Costa Rica: A Discussion from the Perspective of Social Work”, carried out at Costa Rica’s Universidad Estatal a Distancia. This qualitative study sought to understand the theoretical-methodological foundations and epistemological positions underlying financial education initiatives undertaken by the formal financial sector regulated by the General Superintendency of Financial Institutions. The research was enabled through a review of secondary sources (official reports, websites, publications) and interviews with institutional representatives. The findings show a predominance of perspectives related to Financial Administration, Financial Freedom, Financial Health, Financial Intelligence, and Financial Well-Being. These positions are presented in an eclectic, pragmatic, and functionalist manner within the analyzed foundations. Overall, the findings indicate the absence of a clearly defined object of intervention and reveal a recurring debate surrounding the subject through a rational notion (linked to correct decision-making) and an emotional notion (linked to personality and contextual impulses), which places financial responsibility on individuals and excludes the accountability of other contextual agents (such as the state and the market).

Keywords : Consumer Education; economic behavior; epistemology; financial institutions.

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