Why is yawning contagious?

Why is it that when we see people yawn, we get the urge to yawn as well?

I just yawned when I read the question!!! :O...not messin

Ooh! I saw this on a science programme!

Apparently, when someone else yawns, we yawn as well, because our subconcious tells us to empathise with the individual who is yawning, by yawning in return.

Interesting, huh?

Wow, quite interesting lol

it doesnt happen to everyone
but yes most people will yawn after seeing someone else
even if its on tv!

cause its fun, and a social activity.

this is actually a little known fact, but in caveman times, they all used to huddle down by the fire and, chunks of mammoth in hand, began to yawn. they'd have yawning parties. kind of the prehistoric equivalent of a 17th century tea-party.

lolz, soz, im messing witcha. thats actually a really good question. pros to lexie!

I love pulling the 'fake yawn' on people- gets everyone yawning. it is really funny on the assembly line.

Yes!
Drives me nuts haha

When I saw this question I yawned! HAHA seriously..

lol

I yawned too. Haha, baldwinwolf I do that too.