The development of autonomy is a major goal for individuals with a disabling condition This is particularly true in the transition from adolescence to adulthood The emphasis, in the past, has been upon independence from the assistance especially physical assistance, of others More recent developments in the fields of special education, adolescent development, and family systems suggest a need to redefine autonomy In the model offered here, autonomy is defined in terms of individuals' capacities to take responsibility for their own behavior to make decisions regarding their own lives, and to maintain supportive social relationships The development of autonomy is viewed as being dependent upon development of an internal locus of control, use of a set of coping strategies, maintenance of a support network, and development a reciprocal adult attachment These, in turn, are affected by aspects of the family system This model and its implications for individuals with a disabling condtion are described.