Materials contained in the 16 volumes that make up the Rural America Series suggest practices through which rural schools can meet local community needs and realize their potential for career program delivery. This volume, one of three in the subset of support information documents, describes the life role development model, which was conceptualized following an extensive literature review including models and guidelines from local, State, and national developmental efforts from which relevant concepts were adapted. The model, which is meant to be adapted at the local level (K-14), is exemplified and expanded in the various handbooks in the series. This volume provides an overview of the model including conceptual framework, outline of procedures for each model component, and description of the action plan for life role development. References and a glossary are included. Appendixes contain outlines of program objectives in the self and interpersonal relations domain, career planning and decisionmaking domains, and life role assumption domain. (TA)