In Psychology there are two theories that are used to explain an individual or social groups perception of reality, which are perceived and actual reality. Most peoples perceived reality is different to how another person believes their reality is. Actual reality could be where a social group, such as a government, has decided that they will portray society to be as they want it to be perceived by other individuals or a community.

The media has a huge influence on an individuals or groups perception of actual reality and perceived reality. Mainly secondary socialisation rather than primary (childhood) socialisation can often play an important role because the belief system, such as religion, can also establish how others perceive reality to be which is considered important in the socialisation process by many, but mainly occurs during secondary (adulthood) socialisation.