The way people are represented in society and the media is through perceptions shown and turn into stereotypes. A stereotypes is something in which we associate to a subject causing judgement.
All stereotypes can be both good and bad. For example, Chinese people are highly intelligent, women are nurturing and caring and make great mothers, and men are strong. However, many stereotypes can be negative and offensive such as muslims are terrorists.
Depending on the context this is put in, it can affect the way the audience react. For example, in programs such as "Family Guy" people are aware that the majority of the content is there for a joke and doesn't not intend to cause offence. This compared to being shown in a family friendly soap such as Eastenders, it can be offensive towards many viewers.
