were recorded if an individual endorsed one or more traumatic experiences. A maximum endorsement of 17 symptoms were possible in for the three PTSD symptom criteria defined by the DSM‐IV: five re‐experiencing symptoms, seven avoidance symptoms, and five arousal symptoms (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). Individuals could endorse a maximum of seven symptoms for DSM‐IV alcohol dependence. As only data on DSM‐IV PTSD were available, DSM‐IV alcohol dependence was used to remain consistent for both PTSD and alcohol dependence.
