The Science of Yawning

puppy and baby side by side yawning

Yawning is a common reflex that can be triggered by many factors, including fatigue, boredom, and social cues. But did you know that yawning is often contagious? Seeing someone else yawn can trigger a yawn response in us as well. Even saying the word “yawn” can induce the action. This phenomenon is known as contagious yawning, and it has been the subject of much research conducted in recent years

One theory behind contagious yawning is that it is linked to our ability to empathise with others. Studies have shown that people are more likely to yawn in response to someone they know, rather than a stranger, suggesting that social connections may play a role in this phenomenon. For example, if we were to see a close friend or family member yawn, we may be more likely to yawn in response because we feel a sense of empathy or connection with them.

Interestingly, some research has also suggested that contagious yawning may be linked to our brain’s cooling mechanisms. When we yawn, we take in a nice deep breath of air that helps to increase the oxygen levels in our bloodstream and brain. This increase of oxygen in the blood may help to cool the brain and regulate its temperature, which could explain why we yawn more frequently when we’re tired or sleepy.

Studies conducted on contagious yawning

Brain Temperature

One study conducted by researchers at the University of Vienna found that contagious yawning may be influenced by a person’s brain temperature. The study participants were asked to hold a cold pack or a warm pack to their forehead for a few minutes before watching a video of people yawning. The researchers found that those who held the cold pack were less likely to yawn in response to the video than those who held the warm pack. This suggests that our brain temperature may be playing a role in contagious yawning.

Empathy Response

Another study conducted by researchers at the University of Pisa found that people with higher levels of empathy were more likely to yawn in response to a video of people yawning. The researchers measured the participants’ levels of empathy using a questionnaire and found that those who scored higher on the empathy scale were more likely to yawn in response to the video. This further supports the theory that contagious yawning is linked to our ability to empathise with others.

Contagious Yawning in Animals

Contagious yawning has also been studied in other animals, including chimpanzees, dogs, and even fish. One study conducted by researchers at the University of Tokyo found that yawns in fish may be contagious as well. The researchers observed a group of zebrafish and found that when one fish yawned, it often triggered yawns in the other fish nearby.

So is there anything we can do about it?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a sure-fire way to avoid yawning, especially contagious yawning. It seems to be a reflex that is triggered automatically. However, there are some factors that may make us more or less likely to yawn in response to others. For example, if we’re feeling particularly tired or sleepy, we may be more susceptible to contagious yawning. On the other hand, if we’re feeling energised and alert, we may be less likely to yawn in response to others. So, the next time you find yourself yawning after seeing someone else yawn (or saying it), remember that it’s just a natural reflex and there’s nothing to be worried about.

Did you yawn while reading this article? You’re not alone! 🥱

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