Patterns, Perceived Triggers, and Physiological Correlates of Yawning Behavior in First-Year Medical Undergraduates: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study

Abstract

Background:-Yawning is a stereotyped reflex observed in humans and several animal species and is commonly associated with fatigue, boredom, and reduced alertness. It is also regarded as a socially contagious phenomenon. Despite its frequent occurrence, scientific evidence regarding the underlying causes, functional significance, and behavioral patterns of yawning remains limited, particularly among adolescent and young adult populations.

Objectives:-The present study aimed to assess the patterns of yawning behaviour and its associated factors among adolescents.

Materials and Methods:- This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among 200 first-year MBBS students . After obtaining informed consent, participants were administered a self-structured questionnaire incorporating a six-point Likert scale to assess yawning behaviour under various situations. Students were instructed to respond honestly, and anonymity was ensured. The collected data were compiled and analyzed, and the results were represented graphically.

Results:- Under routine conditions, the majority of students reported yawning either “somewhat” or “not at all.” A significantly higher frequency of yawning was reported during sleep deprivation, with 68.42% of students indicating yawning “very much” when they lacked adequate sleep. In contrast, 73.68% of participants reported not yawning during interviews, and 71.05% reported no yawning while completing the questionnaire. Although yawning is widely considered contagious, only 23.68% of students reported yawning frequently upon observing others yawn.

Conclusion:- The findings suggest that yawning among first-year MBBS students predominantly occurs in association with sleep deprivation rather than social or situational stimuli. Overall, the study population appears to maintain a satisfactory level of alertness and engagement, as reflected by low baseline yawning frequency.