REASON FOR CONTAGIOUS YAWNING

When we see someone yawn, we cannot stop our urge to yawn, no matter how much we control it. It is a form of Echophenomena, automatic imitation of another’s actions. This happens not only in humans but animals as well. Scientists relate it to a phenomenon called “Social mirroring”, a behaviour in which one unconsciously imitates others’ gestures. Mirror neurons in the brain stimulate this action.