1. Title and Purpose of the Study:

Causal modeling of academic amotivation based on self-efficacy, academic burnout, social support, and negative emotions in ninth-grade students of Zanjan city. The main objective is to design and test a comprehensive model explaining factors affecting academic amotivation.



2. Research Method and Participants:

This is a descriptive-correlational study using structural equation modeling. The target population includes 7,732 ninth-grade students (Districts 1 and 2 of Zanjan) in the 2025-2026 academic year. Participants will be selected through random cluster sampling (N = 400). Research instruments include standardized questionnaires on academic amotivation, self-efficacy, academic burnout, social support, and negative emotions.



3. Ethical Considerations Observed:



Obtaining dual informed consent (from parents and students) with full explanation of study aims and the right to withdraw without any consequences.



Ensuring data confidentiality through coding questionnaires and omitting names.



Preventing psychological harm by stopping participation upon any sign of distress and providing referrals to school counselors.



Reporting results honestly and collectively without labeling or individual judgment.



Managing the conflict between confidentiality and ethical responsibility if unusually high scores are observed.



4. Benefits and Significance of the Study:

Enhancing the educational system's awareness of factors contributing to amotivation, designing preventive interventions, reducing dropout rates, and improving students' mental health and academic performance, with no significant risk or cost to participants.