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Dr. James Dobson

Dr. James Dobson was the Founder Chairman of the James Dobson Family Institute, a nonprofit organization that produced his radio program, Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk. He earned a Ph.D. from the University of Southern California and held 18 honorary doctoral degrees. He also was the author of more than 70 books dedicated to the preservation of the family.

Dr. Dobson served as an associate clinical professor of pediatrics at the University of Southern California School of Medicine for 14 years, and on the attending staff of Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles for 17 years in the divisions of child development and medical genetics.

He advised five U.S. presidents and served on eight national commissions.

Dr. Dobson was married to Shirley for just shy of 65 years, and he was the beloved father of two grown children, Danae and Ryan, and two grandchildren.

Content By Dr. James Dobson

Dr. Dobson Minute

Disciplining a One Year Old

Have you wondered how to correctly discipline a one-year-old child? Dr. Dobson shares his personal experience and provides some helpful advice on disciplining very young children.

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Broadcasts

48 Years and Still: The Dobson Family Legacy Part 1

On today’s special edition of Family Talk, we look back and honor the life, legacy, and family ministry of Dr. James Dobson. Ryan and Danae Dobson reflect on their lives in the Dobson family, and look back on the sacrifices, integrity, and the intense work ethic that their dad had shown through 40+ years of ministry.

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Dr. Dobson Minute

Are You Struggling With Guilt?

Before you yield to the tyranny of self-blame, ask yourself if the charges against you are valid or invalid.

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Dr. Dobson Minute

Boys Town

Dr. Dobson shares about Boys Town, which began as a simple act of compassion by one man during WWI. This ministry is still in existence today.

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Broadcasts

A Place Called Heaven: Surprising Truths About Eternity

Have you ever wondered what Heaven will be like? On today’s edition of Family Talk, Dr. James Dobson interviews his friend, Dr. Robert Jeffress, to discuss his book, A Place Called Heaven: 10 Surprising Truths About Your Eternal Home.

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Broadcasts

The Dobsons: A Marriage Made in Heaven, Part 2

What makes a marriage last more than 60 extraordinary years? On today’s edition of Family Talk, celebrate Dr. James and Shirley Dobson's milestone anniversary as they share heartfelt reflections on their lifelong journey together. From college sweethearts to ministry partners, their story reveals the power of unwavering commitment, mutual trust, and Christ-centered love.

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Dr. Dobson Minute

Children of Divorced Parents

Dr. Dobson reveals study results on children of divorce and the consequences that carry through to adulthood.

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Dr. Dobson Minute

Transient “Athletic Immortality”

Athletic sports can be fun and exhilarating, but games don't always end the way we would like them to!

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Broadcasts

The Dobsons: A Marriage Made in Heaven, Part 1

On today’s special edition of Family Talk, Dr. James Dobson shares an intimate love letter written to his wife, Shirley, during their early years together. You'll hear his moving reflections on their journey through life's joys and challenges—from humble beginnings to building a ministry that touched millions. Don't miss this touching testimony of enduring commitment and faith on Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk.

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Dr. Dobson Minute

The Principle of the Fly Swatter

Dr. Dobson uses an illustration to explain how flirting with danger can end in tragedy.

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