8 Behaviors that we imitate from one another

Yawning is contagious because it triggers a reflex response in the part of the brain responsible for empathy and social behavior. When we see someone else yawn, it activates a mirror neuron system in our brain that mimics the behavior we observe. This causes us to yawn as well, even if we don't feel tired or sleepy. The contagious nature of yawning is believed to be a social bonding mechanism.