The film includes a brief depiction of a kind gay couple, using some mild stereotypes for comedic effect, and a passing mention of a lesbian character. These elements are incidental, neither strongly affirming nor denigrating, resulting in a neutral overall portrayal.

The film features a brief depiction of a transsexual character, Sam J. Jones, whose identity is used as a source of shock humor at a sperm bank. The portrayal lacks dignity or complexity, presenting the transition solely for comedic effect without any affirming or critical counterbalance.

The film frequently satirizes traditional Christian-based arguments against Ted's personhood, portraying them as narrow-minded or hypocritical. While not attacking the faith directly, the narrative consistently undermines and ridicules the application of religiously-informed definitions of life and personhood when they are used to deny rights.