This paper is intended to assist people who work with persons having mental retardation to better understand what life is like for these individuals. The recommended training program is based on a case study approach, with guided experiences in small study groups led by trained leaders. Principles of training for group leaders are identified, followed by a discussion of the importance of the group developing a code of ethics to protect the confidentiality of the individuals being studied. Next, guidelines for selecting a person to study are offered, with each participating care giver studying one individual for an entire year. Group meetings are recommended on an approximately biweekly basis. Case study activities include: (1) writing descriptive behavioral anecdotes; (2) distinguishing objective from subjective observations; (3) identifying and listing recurring patterns of behavior; (4) selecting a pattern of behavior for analysis by the multiple hypotheses method; and (5) describing life experiences from the perspective of persons with mental retardation. Benefits of such case study activities are listed, including improved ability to objectively record and interpret behavioral materials, withholding of judgments about behavior when evidence is lacking, taking care to substantiate statements about behavior with evidence, willingness to seek the meaning or function of behavioral patterns, and knowledge and appreciation of the difficulties faced by people with mental retardation. (Contains nine references.) (DB)