What accounts for the differences in disability statistics according to the material?

The reason that differences in disability statistics are primarily accounted for by variations in definitions and data collection methods stems from the lack of a universal standard for what constitutes a disability. Different organizations, governmental bodies, and studies may define disability in various ways, leading to discrepancies in the populations they count. Additionally, the methods used to collect data, such as surveys and interviews, can affect the outcomes based on who is surveyed, how questions are phrased, and the context in which data is gathered. This variability contributes significantly to the differences observed in disability statistics, making it crucial to understand these factors when interpreting data on disabilities.

While geographic reporting, public interest, and government regulations can influence statistics to some extent, they do not encapsulate the fundamental discrepancies arising from varying definitions and methodologies to the same degree.