Is yawning an arousal defense reflex?
J Psychol
; 123(6): 609-21, 1989 Nov.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-2558182
Despite the fact that yawning is a reality of everyday life, its study is not included in the curriculum of medical schools, and most medical textbooks barely mention its existence. Two factors may help to explain this puzzling situation: (a) yawning's borderline position between psychology and neurology, and (b) researchers' lack of understanding as to why people yawn. After review of the literature and personal observation, it is concluded that yawning is a complex arousal defense reflex located in the reticular brainstem with a peripheral and central arche, whose aim is to reverse brain hypoxia. Yawning occurs with loss of interest (boredom) and may or may not be associated with fatigue. By reversing drowsiness, yawning avoids a decreased concentration capacity resulting from borderline hypoxia. It is hoped that this article will stimulate further research on the phenomenon.
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Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Nivel de Alerta
/
Reflejo
/
Bostezo
Límite:
Humans
Idioma:
En
Revista:
J Psychol
Año:
1989
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Israel
Pais de publicación:
Estados Unidos