In motivational terms, what does an increase in capability usually lead to?

An increase in capability typically enhances an individual's potential to perform effectively in a given task or role. When capability improves, it often provides the necessary skills, knowledge, and competencies that can be leveraged to achieve better outcomes. However, for this enhanced capability to translate into improved performance, it must be combined with appropriate opportunities to apply those skills in practice.

This synergy between an individual's heightened capabilities and the opportunities available is critical; without a conducive environment or situation where these capabilities can be utilized, the potential benefits may not be fully realized. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the importance of aligning increased capability with opportunities for optimal performance.

In contrast, reduced performance would suggest that an increase in ability somehow hampers output, which does not align with the general understanding of capability enhancement. Higher levels of extrinsic motivation could be a result of improved capability, but they are not a direct consequence; motivation comes from various sources. Similarly, lower intensity in effort contradicts the premise that improved skills lead to better outcomes, as generally, one would expect greater effort aligned with increased capability to achieve higher performance.