TED-Ed: Why is yawning contagious? - Claudia Aguirre

The video explores the phenomenon of contagious yawning, presenting three main hypotheses: fixed action pattern, non-conscious mimicry, and empathy yawn. The fixed action pattern suggests yawning is a reflex triggered by observing another yawn. Non-conscious mimicry, or the chameleon effect, involves mirror neurons that cause us to imitate others' actions unconsciously. The empathy yawn hypothesis links yawning to our ability to empathize, as studies show yawning is more common among familiar individuals. The video concludes by encouraging viewers to reflect on their yawning experiences.

What is the phenomenon called when one person's yawn triggers another person's yawn?

Describe the fixed action pattern hypothesis related to yawning.

What role do mirror neurons play in the phenomenon of contagious yawning?

Explain the empathy yawn hypothesis and its significance.

At what age does contagious yawning typically start to occur in children, and why is this significant?