Empathiseren

Empathiseren is a Dutch verb meaning to experience or convey empathy towards another person. It involves both understanding another’s emotional state and expressing concern or support. The term is used in everyday conversation and in professional contexts such as psychology, counseling, and conflict resolution.

The word is derived from the Greek root empathos meaning feeling, combined with the Dutch suffix –en, which turns a noun into a verb. It entered the Dutch language in the early 20th century, largely through the influence of psychological and sociological disciplines that emphasize the importance of emotional attunement.

In practice, empathiseren is distinguished from sympathy—where one feels pity for another person’s situation. Empathiseren requires an attempt to "step into the other’s shoes," allowing for a deeper, reciprocal emotional connection. Clinicians often teach techniques for empathic listening, such as reflective statements, paraphrasing, and maintaining eye contact.

The concept also appears in organizational and cross-cultural studies. Research suggests that empathischer behavior can improve teamwork, reduce conflict, and increase job satisfaction. In educational settings, teachers who empathize with students’ challenges can foster supportive learning environments.

Because empathiseren is both a personal skill and a sociocultural practice, it is frequently referenced in discussions of emotional intelligence, social capital, and community resilience. The term is common in Dutch-speaking countries and is often compared with the English verb "to empathize" and the German "sich einfühlen."