Why is yawning contagious? - Claudia Aguirre
2,387,037 Views
19,693 Questions Answered
Let’s Begin…
*Yaaawwwwwn* Did just reading the word make you feel like yawning yourself? Known
as contagious yawning, the reasons behind this phenomenon have been
attributed to both the physiological and psychological. It's been
observed in children as young as four and even in dogs! Claudia Aguirre
visits the many intriguing theories that might explain contagious
yawning.
In your own words, explain why contagious yawning may not simply be a ‘reflex’ to the sight or sound of a yawn, as theorized by the Fixed Action Pattern hypothesis.
Sign in to answer questionAbout TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator Claudia Aguirre
- Editor Michael Molina
- Director Biljana Labović
- Animation Artist Lisa LaBracio, Godfrey Hibbert
- Animator Sam Lee
- Narrator Julianna Zarzycki