The processes generally cited in theories of cavern formation are corrasiont and olution. Neither of these processes adequately explains the presence of cave fill in many caves. A new concept in cavern formation involves a possible disintegration process due to release of former high pressure on sediments that were being elevated from depths in which they were formed. This process can account for the relationship of cavern plans to joint systems, the generally horizontal development of caves, and other characteristics besides accounting for the formation of cave fill in place. This avoids the problem of explaining how cave fill can be transported into caves from outside. Application of the theory of disintegration to problems o.f origin of dome pits in caves is discussed, and the possibility of this explanation of the formation of caves in non-carbonate rocks is suggested.