Are there important theoretical differences between Erikson's construct of a negative identity and such related ideas as the Adlerian neglected child, Horney's concept of moving against people, and the Sullivanian malevolent transformation? Or are they all much the same?

Understanding the concept of Erikson's negative identity is crucial. Erik Erikson, a developmental psychologist, coined this term within his theory of psychosocial development. A negative identity is formed when individuals, typically in their adolescence, adopt behaviors and attitudes in direct opposition to what is preferred by their parents or society. These behaviors are not simply a matter of youthful rebellion; they are a deeper expression of identity crisis, influenced significantly by key developmental experiences.

For example, if a community highly values academic achievement, a young person might deliberately underperform or reject educational pursuits to forge an identity distinct from societal expectations. According to Erikson, this process serves as a means for the individual to explore their sense of self, although it can lead to detrimental behavioral patterns if not understood and addressed properly.

It is essential for educators and parents to recognize signs of a negative identity forming, such as sustained oppositional behavior, to provide support that can guide young people towards a more positive self-concept.

Alfred Adler, another influential psychologist, introduced the concept of the 'neglected child' within his individual psychology framework. This concept describes an individual who, during childhood, feels overlooked or undervalued compared to their peers or siblings. According to Adler, this neglect can lead to feelings of inferiority, which the individual strives to overcome throughout their life.

The neglected child is unlike Erikson's negative identity as it is rooted in early childhood development rather than adolescent behavior choices. Moreover, while Erikson's construct is about conscious identity formation, Adler's neglected child may form unconscious strategies for gaining attention and validation.

For a student struggling with feelings of neglect, it is pivotal to foster an environment where they feel seen and heard. Recognizing their achievements, no matter how small, can significantly aid in reducing feelings of inferiority and contribute to a healthier self-image.

Karen Horney, a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, offered a different lens through which to view difficult behaviors. Her theory included the concept of 'moving against people,' a style of interaction characterized by aggression and dominance. Unlike Erikson's negative identity, which is a reaction to societal norms, and Adler's neglected child, which arises from feelings of insignificance, Horney's theory suggests a neurotic behavior pattern driven by a deep-seated anxiety.

Individuals who are 'moving against people' may appear combative, and controlling, and may seek power over others as a coping mechanism to manage their insecurities. It's important for educators and mental health professionals to understand the underlying anxiety that propels such behaviors. This understanding allows for interventions that address the root causes rather than just the aggressive behaviors exhibited.

Supporting students in developing healthy coping mechanisms and self-awareness can help reduce the intensity of these neurotic needs and promote more constructive interactions with others.

The final core concept is Harry Stack Sullivan's 'malevolent transformation'. This idea resides within the realm of interpersonal relationships, where individuals undergo a shift in their perception of others — from benign or neutral to threatening. This transformation often stems from negative past experiences leading to a defensive outlook on relationships, expecting malevolence where it may not exist.

Different from the Eriksonian and Adlerian perspectives, which focus more on individual identity and feelings of self, and Horney's, which addresses behavioral strategies, Sullivan's concept tackles the interaction between the individual and their social environment. A person's distorted perception of others could result in hostile behaviors not because they desire control like in Horney's concept or out of a need to establish identity like in Erikson's, but because they genuinely perceive others as antagonistic.

For individuals displaying signs of this cognitive distortion, creating a supportive and understanding social environment can begin to undo the 'transformation', fostering trust in others and reducing interpersonal conflict.