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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 10, 2026

A Laboratory Method to Measure Contagious Yawning in Rats

A Laboratory Method to Measure Contagious Yawning in Rats

Published on: June 14, 2019

Yawning and its physiological significance.

Sharat Gupta¹, Shallu Mittal

¹Department of Physiology, Gian Sagar Medical College, Ramnagar, Patiala, India.

International Journal of Applied & Basic Medical Research

|June 19, 2013

Summary

Yawning, often linked to boredom, may serve crucial physiological functions beyond simple tiredness. Emerging research suggests this common human behavior plays a more significant role in bodily regulation than previously understood.

Keywords:

Arousal brain thermoregulation empathy yawning

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Area of Science:

Physiology
Behavioral Science

Background:

Yawning is a common human behavior, yet its physiological significance is poorly understood.
Traditionally associated with drowsiness and boredom, its deeper functions remain largely unexplored in medical education.

Purpose of the Study:

To review proposed physiological functions of yawning.
To stimulate further research into the under-explored field of yawning's purpose.

Main Methods:

Literature review of studies proposing functions of yawning.
Synthesis of current hypotheses regarding yawning's role.

Main Results:

Yawning is characterized by a specific respiratory pattern: a deep inhalation followed by a brief pause and exhalation.
Newer studies suggest yawning may serve more meaningful physiological goals than previously believed.

Conclusions:

The traditional view of yawning as solely a sign of boredom or tiredness is being challenged.
Further investigation is needed to fully elucidate the physiological significance and functions of yawning.