Each of these dividend-paying stocks yields at least 3.5%.

Buying and holding stocks with a long-term horizon takes the pressure off quarterly results and shifts the focus to a structured investment thesis. An investment thesis removes emotion -- serving as a reminder for why you bought a stock in the first place. And if the rationale still holds, going back to an investment thesis during times of uncertainty can provide reassurance and boost conviction.

Companies that sport robust dividend yields can play an integral part of a long-term investment thesis. That's because dividends can make up a significant portion of an investment's total return. Here's why these Fool.com contributors pegged Whirlpool ( WHR 6.17% ) , International Business Machines ( IBM 0.94% ) , and

See Full Page