James Clayton Dobson Jr., the influential American evangelical Christian author, psychologist, and founder of the widely recognized ministry Focus on the Family, has passed away at the age of 88.
A defining figure in the modern evangelical movement, Dobson combined his background in psychology with a passion for faith-based family values, becoming one of the most powerful conservative voices in American public life throughout the late 20th century.
Dobson was born on April 21, 1936, in Shreveport, Louisiana, into a deeply religious family. His father, a Nazarene minister, helped instill in him a lifelong commitment to Christianity.
After graduating from Pasadena College, Dobson pursued psychology, earning a Ph.D. from the University of Southern California. Early in his career, he worked as an associate clinical professor of pediatrics at the University of Southern California School of Medicine, where he focused on child development and family dynamics.
It was during these years that Dobson began to merge his expertise in psychology with his evangelical faith, convinced that strong families were the foundation of both healthy individuals and a thriving society. His 1970 book Dare to Discipline became a bestseller, resonating with parents across America and launching him into national prominence.
The Rise of Focus on the Family
In 1977, Dobson founded Focus on the Family in Arcadia, California. The ministry quickly grew into one of the most influential evangelical organizations in the world, offering radio programs, magazines, counseling resources, and advocacy for traditional family values. Dobson’s daily radio broadcast reached millions, offering advice on parenting, marriage, and faith.
By the 1980s, Dobson had become a central figure in the conservative Christian movement. He was often described as one of the most influential spokesmen for conservative social positions in American public life, advocating against abortion, same-sex marriage, and secular influences on American culture.
His work helped mobilize evangelical Christians as a potent political force, influencing elections and shaping national debates on morality, education, and family policy.
Cultural and Political Influence
Dobson’s influence extended far beyond the pulpit and the counseling room. He was frequently invited to the White House and Capitol Hill, meeting with presidents, lawmakers, and policymakers to share his views on issues affecting American families. In 1990, he was appointed to the U.S. Commission on Child and Family Welfare, underscoring his national role as a voice for family-related issues.
While many admired him as a compassionate counselor and principled leader, Dobson was also a polarizing figure. Supporters praised his unflinching defense of biblical values and his tireless advocacy for children and families, while critics accused him of promoting rigid, exclusionary views. Regardless of perspective, few could deny his impact on American evangelicalism and the broader culture.
Later Life and Legacy
In 2010, after more than three decades at the helm, Dobson stepped down from his leadership role at Focus on the Family. He later founded Family Talk, a nonprofit dedicated to continuing his mission of strengthening Christian families through media and outreach. Even in his later years, he remained active in writing, broadcasting, and speaking, continuing to shape conversations around faith, family, and politics.
Dobson authored more than 30 books over his lifetime, including The Strong-Willed Child, Bringing Up Boys, and Love for a Lifetime. His works were translated into multiple languages and widely distributed, making him a household name among evangelical families worldwide.
James Dobson is survived by his wife, Shirley, whom he married in 1960, and their two children. His son, Ryan Dobson, has also been active in Christian ministry.
Remembering a Defining Voice
Dobson’s passing marks the end of an era for many evangelicals who grew up with his teachings and radio broadcasts as guiding influences in their homes. Whether celebrated as a guardian of faith and family or critiqued as a symbol of conservative resistance to social change, his impact on American religion and culture is undeniable.
As tributes pour in from religious leaders, politicians, and families across the nation, James Dobson is remembered as a man who dedicated his life to the cause he believed in most deeply: strengthening families through the principles of faith, discipline, and love.
