Drawing faceless people and reacting with crying when asked to draw could be indicative of emotional or developmental issues that your 7-year-old brother might be experiencing. It's important to consult with a qualified professional, such as a child psychologist or pediatrician, to get a proper evaluation and guidance. They can assess the situation more thoroughly and offer appropriate recommendations.
Here are some potential explanations for your brother's behavior:
Emotional distress: Drawing faceless people might be a reflection of inner emotional turmoil or anxiety. The act of drawing without facial features could be a way for him to express feelings that he finds difficult to verbalize.
Trauma or difficult experiences: Sometimes, children may experience distressing events or traumas that they struggle to cope with, and it might be reflected in their drawings. Faceless figures could be a way of distancing from those experiences.
Developmental stage: At 7 years old, some children might not have developed the fine motor skills required to draw detailed facial features accurately. This frustration could lead to emotional reactions like crying.
Sensory issues: Some children have sensory processing challenges, and certain aspects of drawing, like focusing on facial details, may be overwhelming for them.
Social or communication difficulties: Difficulties in social interaction or communication might make it hard for your brother to express himself through drawings. The faceless figures could be a reflection of this struggle.
Perfectionism: Your brother might be a perfectionist and feel anxious about drawing "flawed" faces. As a result, he avoids drawing facial features altogether.
Anxiety or fear of judgment: Your brother may fear criticism or judgment of his drawings, leading him to avoid drawing facial features to avoid potential negative feedback.
To support your brother, it's essential to create a safe and non-judgmental environment. Encourage him to express his feelings and thoughts through various means, not just drawing. Consider talking to a child psychologist or counselor who specializes in working with children to gain insights into his emotional well-being and any underlying issues that might be affecting his behavior.
Remember, every child is unique, and understanding the individual context and needs of your brother is crucial for providing appropriate support and guidance.