Why do we yawn when we see someone else yawn?
It’s a scientific fact that yawning is contagious – but scientists can’t seem to tell us why. It’s known that people and animals yawn as a reflex to get some oxygen to the brain - but that doesn’t explain why it triggers that chain reaction in others. One theory is that if someone near us is not getting enough oxygen, our brain thinks maybe we need some too. However, that doesn’t explain why seeing images of someone yawning – or even just talking about yawning can trigger one.
Scientists agree – yawning is not just a reflex but a form of communication. Misery loves company and if I’m deprived of oxygen, bored or tired, then you should be too.
Source: Dr. Robert Provine, Encyclopedia of Neuroscience
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