Yawns are contagious because our brains copy what we see. When we see someone yawn, special brain cells called mirror neurons make us want to yawn too. These cells help us understand and copy other people’s actions. Contagious yawning is also connected to feelings and empathy. People who care a lot about others are more likely to yawn when they see someone else yawn.
Animals like dogs and chimpanzees can yawn this way too, especially around friends or family. Scientists think contagious yawning might help groups stay alert and work together. Even though we don’t know all the reasons why yawns spread, it shows how connected we are to each other. So, if you yawn after seeing someone else yawn, it’s normal—it just means your brain is copying them and keeping your body in sync with others.