Dimensional models of personality disorders

Dimensional models of personality disorders (also known as the dimensional approach to personality disorders, dimensional classification, and dimensional assessments) conceptualize personality disorders as quantitatively—not qualitatively—distinct from normal personality, viewing disorders as extreme positions on continuous trait dimensions shared by the general population. They consist of extreme, maladaptive levels of certain personality characteristics – commonly described as facets within broader personality factors or traits.

Source: Wikipedia — Dimensional models of personality disorders (CC BY-SA 4.0)