08/21/25 - Influential Christian Psychologist Dr. James Dobson Passes Away

The highly influential radio host and psychologist was heard on thousands of radio stations around the world, while authoring dozens of books on raising children and maintaining a positive marriage.

Influential Christian psychologist Dr. James Dobson has passed away. The Dobson Family Institute released the news saying Dobson had passed today at the age of 89. No other details surrounding his passing were released. Dobson was influential in multiple arenas from politics to family dynamics.

Dobson was born in Born in 1936 in Shreveport, Louisiana. He attended Pasadena College, now Point Loma Nazarene University. He earned his doctorate in Psychology from the University of Southern California. 

He wrote his first book, the heavily influential "Dare to Discipline" in 1970 in which he advocated for strong parental authority, including corporal punishment, to direct children to change their behavior. In 1977 he founded 'Focus on the Family' as an organization to further assist parents in raising their children. 

“Dr. Dobson was a pioneer—a man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family and culture,” said Gary Bauer, Senior Vice President of Public Policy at the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute. “His bold leadership, integrity, and compassion helped equip countless families to thrive in a world of shifting values. He was a mentor, a counselor, and a steady voice of truth in turbulent times.”

At its peak, Dobson’s radio program “Focus on the Family” was heard on four-thousand radio stations, translated into dozens of languages, and broadcast in over 150 countries. He authored 70 books and was an advisor to multiple presidents. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley; their children, Danae and Ryan; daughter-in-law Laura; and two beloved grandchildren. 

For more information or to leave a tribute, visit the Foundation website at Dobson Memorial.