One of the topics that often comes up in premarital counseling is changing last names. Specifically, we’re talking about the long-standing custom of women dropping their maiden name and adopting their husband’s surname as their own.

The pending nuptials of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have royal watchers brushing up on royal naming practices and asking 'what's in a name?'

Deciding whether or not to take your partner's name when you get married is a pretty big decision, if only because your more traditional family members might raise an eyebrow if you or your spouse chooses to keep their own. Well, it looks like those traditionalists might be onto something, since a new study found that taking your partner's name in marriage can affect the power dynamic in a relationship. Researchers out of the University of Nevada conducted a three-part study in the United States and United Kingdom and concluded that when a man's wife doesn't take his name, he's perceived by others as less powerful and submissive.

The pending nuptials of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have royal watchers brushing up on royal naming practices and asking ‘what’s in a name?’

Men are perceived as powerless and less masculine if their wives choose not to take their surnames after marriage.

"I now pronounce you man and wife, you may kiss the bride... etc and so forth." This is followed shortly after by the MC announcing the newly married couple, "Now, introducing for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Smith..."

If women do not take their husband's surname, it is sometimes perceived as "disempowering" the husband.

While taking their husband's surname was once the norm, women are increasingly choosing to keep their maiden name after marriage.