What is the term for a partner expressing empathy towards the other's feelings?

The term that accurately describes a partner expressing empathy towards the other's feelings is validation. Validation involves recognizing and affirming the feelings and experiences of another person, which can help the individual feel understood and accepted. When one partner validates the emotions of the other, it signifies that they are listening and acknowledging those feelings instead of dismissing or minimizing them. This act of empathy fosters deeper emotional connection and trust within the relationship.

While sympathy conveys a sense of care and concern for someone else's difficulties, it often involves feeling pity rather than fully understanding or sharing those feelings. Encouragement focuses more on motivating or uplifting a person, and supportiveness can encompass a wide range of actions, not specifically tied to feelings. Therefore, validation is the most precise term in this context.