Skip to main content

Why is yawning contagious? - Claudia Aguirre

2,382,782 Views

19,666 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

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.

Mirror neurons are important for learning and self-awareness. Why do you think watching someone tie their shoelaces can help you better tie your own shoelaces?

Sign in to answer question

About 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

More from Getting Under Our Skin