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Why is yawning contagious? - Claudia Aguirre

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*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.

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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

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