James Dobson

Self-Help Author

Birthday April 21, 1936

Birth Sign Taurus

Birthplace Shreveport, LA

DEATH DATE Aug 21, 2025 (89)

#14,705 Most Popular

About

A psychologist, evangelical Christian, and author of religious self-help books, he also founded Focus on the Family, a conservative nonprofit organization. His published works include Straight Talk to Men and When God Doesn't Make Sense.

Before Fame

He earned a doctorate in psychology from the University of Southern California and combined his academic expertise with his religious faith to publish Dare to Discipline, a book promoting the use of corporal punishment.

Trivia

Though never an ordained minister, he became a leading evangelical Christian. His work helped legitimize corporal punishment as a practice. 

Family Life

He was born to a religious family in Shreveport, Louisiana. He married Shirley Dobson in 1960.

Associated With

Like televangelists Billy Graham and Pat Robertson, Dobson was vocal about his faith and his conservative politics.