The Power of Contagious Yawning

Delving into the phenomenon of contagious yawning, this chapter explores how it transcends species boundaries, affecting humans, chimpanzees, and even certain animal species. It dives into the development of contagious yawning in early childhood, its connection to empathy, and potential evolutionary advantages, such as enhancing group vigilance and promoting synchrony within social groups. The chapter challenges misconceptions around yawning, highlighting its benefits for cognitive functioning and advocating for embracing this natural behavior.