Have you ever just seen someone yawn and seconds later did the same yourself? If so, you are not alone. Scientists have found that yawning is one of the most contagious human behaviors.
According to a number of studies, people are much more likely to yawn when they see a family member, friend or even a stranger yawning. Interestingly, this can happen even if you just read the word “yawn” or see a picture of it.
Experts believe that the reason is related to the so-called mirror neurons – cells in the brain that help us understand and unconsciously repeat the actions of other people. They play an important role in empathy and social communication.
Curiously, contagious yawning is not only observed in humans. Similar behavior has been recorded in chimpanzees, dogs, wolves and some other animals. Although scientists are still investigating all the mechanisms behind this phenomenon, one thing is certain – the next time someone next to you yawns, the likelihood that you will do the same is quite high.
Illustrative photo: pexels-janessapretorius-8758530
