Compounds, compositions, and methods for modulating processes mediated by Retinoid X Receptors using retinoid-like compounds which have activity selective for members of the subclass of Retinoid X Receptors (RXRs), in preference to members of the subclass of Retinoic Acid Receptors (RARs). Examples of such compounds are bicyclic benzyl, pyridinyl, thiophene, furanyl, pyrrole, and polyenoic acid derivatives including carbocyclic polyenoic acids. The disclosed methods employ compounds for modulating processes selectively mediated by Retinoid X Receptors.