Which of the following is NOT one of the variables contributing to racial and ethnic disparities in rehabilitation service systems?

The correct answer indicates that socio-cultural influences do not contribute to racial and ethnic disparities in rehabilitation service systems. This suggests that the other variables—client characteristics, counselor characteristics, and characteristics of service provision—are indeed recognized contributors to disparities.

Client characteristics may include factors such as age, gender, and specific disabilities, which can affect how individuals navigate and access rehabilitation services. Counselor characteristics, including training, biases, and cultural competence, play a significant role in how effectively counselors can connect with and support clients from diverse backgrounds. Lastly, characteristics of service provision, like accessibility, availability of services, and the organizational culture of rehabilitation programs, can directly impact the quality and equity of care offered to clients.

In contrast, socio-cultural influences encapsulate broader societal norms and values, which, while relevant, are not seen as specific variables contributing to disparities in the rehabilitation context, but rather as contextual factors that shape experiences over time. Thus, while they may impact overall health outcomes indirectly, they are not classified as a direct variable in the analysis of disparities in this specific context.