Charles Esther
James Dobson, renowned evangelical psychologist, author, and founder of Focus on the Family, passed away on Aug. 21 at the age of 89. He was widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in America’s conservative Christian movement.
Advisor to Five U.S. Presidents
Over the years, Dobson served as a trusted advisor on family policy to five U.S. presidents, including his role on former President Donald Trump’s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board. He became a defining figure in advancing traditional family values, biblical sexual ethics, and the pro-life cause.
Builder of Institutions
“James Dobson was the indispensable man,” said Peter Wolfgang, president of the Family Institute of Connecticut Action. Wolfgang credited Dobson with laying the foundation for America’s modern pro-family movement by creating institutions that endured in shaping cultural and political debates.
Focus on the Family and Global Reach
After nearly two decades in academia and clinical practice, Dobson founded Focus on the Family in 1977. The organization’s daily radio program reached hundreds of millions worldwide through more than 7,000 stations, offering parenting advice and encouraging Christian engagement in cultural issues. By the 1990s, the group had a budget exceeding $100 million and had expanded into publications, videos, and youth programs.
Role in Founding Advocacy Groups
Dobson co-founded several other influential organizations, including the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) in 1994 and the Family Research Council. His leadership also helped establish Family Policy Councils in about 40 U.S. states. ADF leaders credited Dobson with providing the inspiration and reputation that helped the organization thrive.
Leadership in the ‘Culture Wars’
Dobson was hailed as a central figure in what became known as America’s “culture wars,” with his advocacy contributing to milestones like the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Wolfgang emphasized that Dobson provided the tools and strategies for pro-family Christians to engage effectively at both state and federal levels.
Evangelical–Catholic Unity
In 2000, Dobson and other evangelical leaders met Pope John Paul II in Rome, demonstrating unity with Catholics on issues like marriage, abortion, and the family. Dobson often emphasized that despite theological divides, Christians shared a strong commitment to defending life and family values.
Creative Influence and Media Legacy
Dobson also helped foster creative projects like the Adventures in Odyssey radio drama, which continues to inspire families. Paul McCusker, a longtime collaborator and later a Catholic convert, praised Dobson as a man of “godly integrity” who guided countless families through his wisdom and creativity.
Early Life and Academic Career
Born in 1936 in Louisiana into a family of Nazarene pastors, Dobson pursued psychology, earning his Ph.D. from the University of Southern California in 1967. He spent nearly two decades in pediatrics and child development before founding Focus on the Family. His first book, Dare to Discipline (1970), became a landmark in Christian parenting literature.
Family Legacy
Dobson leaves behind his wife of nearly 65 years, Shirley, their two children, Danae and Ryan, daughter-in-law Laura, and two grandchildren.
David Awoyode