This review aims to give an insight into the developmental psychopathology perspective of attention-defi cit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). According to evolutionary theories, phenotypes associated with ADHD might have been adaptive in the past but became dysfunctional in modern life (mismatch theory). Genome-wide association studies have supported this theory. Multiple developmental pathways lead to ADHD (equifi nality), and risk factors associated with ADHD may lead to different outcomes (multifi nality). Heritability of ADHD is high; however, its aetiology is heterogeneous and multifactorial, including genetic factors, gene-environment interactions and correlations, as well as epigenetic mechanism. Core symptoms of ADHD - inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity - are the same throughout the lifespan, but their presentation, as well as the comorbid profile, show typical age-specific diff erences. ADHD is characterized by strong homotypic continuity, ADHD in children persists in a large proportion into adolescence and adulthood - underlying the importance of lifespan perspective. Heterotypic continuity of ADHD has been described with externalizing and internalizing disorders; research on the different developmental pathways contribute to the recognition and prevention of maladaptive outcomes.