Symbolic Communication Training Through Music (SYCOM) aims to enhance which aspect of communication?

Symbolic Communication Training Through Music (SYCOM) is designed to enhance nonverbal communication and language pragmatics. This approach utilizes music as a medium to help individuals develop their ability to communicate effectively without solely relying on verbal language. By engaging clients in musical activities, therapists can foster skills such as turn-taking, social cues, and emotional expression, which are essential components of effective communication.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of communication or skills that are not the primary focus of SYCOM. The restoration of speech intelligibility, for instance, pertains directly to the clarity and articulation of spoken language, which is not the core aim of SYCOM. Similarly, improving respiratory features in speech is associated with speech therapy techniques that target speech mechanics rather than symbolic or nonverbal communication skills. Lastly, while developing music skills for social interaction is beneficial, SYCOM specifically emphasizes the enhancement of communicative intent and understanding through those musical interactions, rather than solely improving musical abilities. Thus, the correct focus is on developing nonverbal communication and language pragmatics, which are central to SYCOM's methodologies.