Noting that previous research in the area of relational communication has been concerned primarily with the control defining patterns of symmetry and complementarity, this paper investigates how other dimensions of social relationships might be incorporated with descriptions of the control dimensions. After a review of some conceptualizations and measures of possible dimensions, the paper presents an exploratory model that attempts to interrelate three concepts in ways that encourage other research and more empirically-based theorizing. Specifically, it suggests that transactional control and affection dimensions can be used to discriminate between functional and dysfunctional families. (FL)