Writings in the field of human development and learning in the adult years can be integrated into a simple theory. A theory is defined as a policy, hypothesis, or set of principles used or proposed as a basis for action. The adult years are defined as a time in which one makes choices with a degree of maturity and wisdom and assumes responsibility for one's life and actions. This theory proposes that choices are shaped by messages from both the exterior objective world and the interior life. A person makes choices during this interplay between the values within the interior life and the messages from the exterior world. This interplay, or clash of values and messages, may be acute during a developmental phase or transition in life. This experience can be, and often is, the trigger or motivation for learning. Over time, adults can either expand their life space, limit their life space, or retrogress as they live in a state of conditional freedom. (Contains 66 references.) (Author/YLB)