The Contagious Yawning Phenomenon: A Mystery of Empathy

Yawning is a common action that occurs in daily life. The duration of a yawn is approximately 6 seconds, during which the nerves and muscles in the body can relax. Sometimes, we notice a strange phenomenon in which people around us start yawning one after another after one person yawns. Does yawning really spread from person to person?

Is yawning contagious?

Yes, yawning can be contagious. This phenomenon of contagious yawning has been observed in humans, chimpanzees, baboons, and dogs. Neurobiologists have found that only vertebrates with a well-developed cerebral cortex have the ability to recognize and transmit yawns to each other. This is a complex social behavior that is governed by "higher consciousness and intelligence of the brain."

Why is yawning contagious?

Scientists have discovered that the brain activity during yawning is similar to the brain activity when expressing sympathy. In other words, contagious yawning may be a form of unconscious mental imitation. The so-called "contagious yawning" is actually "yawn imitation," which is a psychological suggestion and is different from the transmission of colds. When you see someone yawning, the visual stimulation triggers the cerebral cortex and a reflex in the nervous system, resulting in an instinctive response.

Is contagious yawning good or bad?

The phenomenon of contagious yawning is somewhat of a mystery, as no negative effects have been discovered so far. Furthermore, studies have shown that yawning may help cool the brain, and the potential benefits of contagious yawning may include enhancing overall alertness in humans. If yawning can cool the brain, this behavior may enhance vigilance.

Who is more susceptible to contagion?

Many researchers believe that the ability to be infected by contagious yawning reflects a person's empathy, which is the ability to understand and resonate with others' feelings. Researchers at the University of Leeds in the UK conducted an experiment on contagious yawning and found that psychology students were more affected by yawning compared to engineering students. The more susceptible a person is to yawning, the higher their empathy. From another perspective, yawning may reveal a person's softness of heart.

Who is less susceptible to contagion?

People who have poor communication and social skills are likely to be less affected by contagious yawning. These individuals are often less empathetic and less considerate of others. Some studies have also found that people who are less affected by contagious yawning tend to be more rational, firm, or even cold, while those who are more susceptible to yawning are more sensitive and easily gain others' favor.

Who is more likely to transmit yawning to others?

Research has shown that yawning is more likely to be transmitted between individuals with close relationships. The highest rates of contagious yawning occur between family members, followed by friends, acquaintances, and strangers. This indicates that yawning is a form of empathy, where people sense the feelings of others. In the case of contagious yawning, the feelings usually involve stress, anxiety, boredom, or fatigue.