Based on the theory of Henry & Short, it was predicted that suicide rates should be higher & homicide rates lower in countries where the quality of life (QOL) is better. In 1980, for a sample of 43 countries, this prediction was confirmed for some components of the QOL (psychological well-being) but not for other components (political stability, defense, economy & cultural diversity). However, changes in the QOL from 1970-1980 were not related to changes in the suicide or homicide rates. 7 refs.