SHOULD YOU KEEP YOUR MAIDEN NAME? RELATIONSHIPS

A study found that people judge women who take their husband’s name. Emma insists we ignore relationship busybodies

ccording to this A research, when a woman keeps her name, people perceive her husband as being less masculine and having less power in the relationship, while she is considered to have a higher status, wield more power and be more self-focused, ambitious and assertive.

I think we can all agree that the participants in this study must be stuck in the 1950s! The notion that taking your husband’s name makes you appear less powerful than keeping your own is ridiculous! Furthermore, even if it were true (which it isn’t!), who cares what anyone else thinks? Such decisions are yours and only yours to make. I didn't take my husband’s name, but I'm certain nobody perceives me as a radical, emasculating feminist as a result!

It runs deeper than marital surnames, too. Learning that other people’s opinions are not facts can really help take the pressure off relationships and stop you comparing yours to other people's. Even if those close to you are scrutinising your partnership and suggesting how it could be improved, unless they have a valid point that mirrors one of your own concerns, you should either ignore them, or politely suggest they keep their mouths firmly shut.

The only person who truly knows your relationship is you, so the only judgement that counts is your own. If you love your partner, and are happy in your relationship, you should feel blessed – regardless of your surname or public opinion!