James Dobson, Founder of Focus on the Family and Influential Evangelical Leader, Dies at 89
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — James C. Dobson, the child psychologist whose books and broadcasts made him one of the most influential evangelical voices in America and a powerful force in conservative politics, has died at the age of 89. His death was announced Thursday by the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute.
Dobson rose to prominence in the 1970s with his bestselling parenting guide Dare to Discipline, which promoted a mix of psychological insight and strict, biblically informed parenting. His advice, delivered through books, radio programs, and television appearances, helped shape evangelical family life for a generation. By 1977, he had founded Focus on the Family, a Colorado-based ministry that grew into a global media empire employing more than 1,000 people at its peak.
His reach extended far beyond family counseling. Dobson became a central figure in the rise of the Christian right, speaking forcefully against abortion, evolution in schools, and LGBTQ+ rights. He also co-founded the Family Research Council in the early 1980s, which later became one of Washington’s most influential conservative policy organizations.
Dobson’s language often reflected his unflinching conservatism. Focus on the Family publications described homosexuality as “a particularly evil lie of Satan” and denounced transgender identities as “a lie from the pit of hell.” For Dobson, cultural debates were not mere disagreements but spiritual battles. In 2015, reacting to the Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges legalizing same-sex marriage, he declared: “That decision is not really about gay marriage… It’s about the entire culture war. We lost the entire culture war with that one decision.”
His prominence meant political leaders frequently sought him out. Dobson was regularly invited to the White House under President Ronald Reagan, and in 1985 was appointed to Attorney General Edwin Meese’s Commission on Pornography. Over the years, he advised multiple presidents, including both George H.W. and George W. Bush. During the 1996 presidential campaign, he openly warned the GOP that softening its anti-abortion stance would risk alienating evangelical voters, underscoring his sway over the Republican base.
But Dobson’s hardline positions also created friction, even within his own political camp. Some Republican leaders found him uncompromising and difficult to negotiate with, particularly when he threatened evangelical defections from the party over abortion-related issues.
Despite the controversies, Dobson’s cultural impact was undeniable. Through Focus on the Family’s broadcasts, magazines, books, and counseling services, he influenced millions of parents and pastors across the world. His work placed him at the nexus of faith and politics, making him both revered and criticized.
Gary Bauer, senior vice president of public policy at the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, described him as “a pioneer — a man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family, and culture.” Bauer added: “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.”
Tributes also came from allies like Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, who called him “one of the most impactful Christian leaders of his era” and praised his lifelong dedication to promoting what he viewed as biblically grounded family life.
Born in 1936 in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dobson grew up in a devout Nazarene family. He earned a Ph.D. in child development from the University of Southern California, where he also taught pediatrics and worked as an associate clinical professor. By combining his academic training with evangelical faith, he created a unique platform that resonated with millions of American Christians navigating changing cultural landscapes.
Dobson is survived by his wife, Shirley, whom he married in 1960, their two children, and several grandchildren.
Whether praised as a defender of family values or criticized for fueling cultural division, Dobson leaves behind a legacy that shaped not only evangelical parenting but also the political landscape of modern America. His influence on generations of families and policymakers alike ensures that his impact will be felt long after his passing.