What is defined as the mental visualization of objects or scenes that are not present?

The correct choice is visual imagery, which refers to the ability to create mental images or representations of objects, scenes, or experiences that are not currently being perceived through the senses. This cognitive process allows individuals to "see" things in their mind's eye, facilitating recall, imagination, and problem-solving.

Visual imagery is an important aspect of cognitive psychology, as it plays a crucial role in memory, creativity, and even in tasks like spatial navigation. By visualizing concepts or scenarios, people can better understand and manipulate information mentally, which can enhance learning and creativity.

Emotional intelligence encompasses the awareness and management of one's emotions and the ability to recognize emotions in others, but it does not involve the visualization of objects. Transactive memory refers to a shared system for remembering information within a group, while groupthink describes the phenomenon where consensus-seeking leads to poor decision-making. Both of these concepts are related to social psychology and group dynamics rather than individual cognitive processes like visualization.