This study investigated the occupational choice process according to the special needs of the young adult with mild mental retardation. The study was guided by specific assumptions developed after a review of the literature concerning the condition of mental retardation and occupational role development. Propositions were developed and a model was constructed to illustrate the relationships between components of the occupational choice process and factors affecting occupational role development. A case study is presented to illustrate that the theory could be applied to a practical situation and to illustrate those areas for occupational therapy intervention.