Empathy & Compassion

Contagious yawns are a sign of empathy

by |Published

Scientists from universities in Pisa, Parma and Rome found that the ‘catching yawn’ is caused by a need to share and understand the emotions and feelings of others.

  • Scientists from universities in Pisa, Parma and Rome found that the ‘catching yawn’ is caused by a need to understand the feelings of others
  • The ’emotional bridge’ created by yawning enhances social bonding
  • Study found a yawn is far more likely to spread among groups of friends
  • Human ability to feel empathy is far stronger between friends and relatives 
  • Yawns are also contagious in groups of apes, but don’t signify friendship


By BEN SPENCER

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