Final answer:
The defense mechanism where a person takes on qualities of another to avoid anxiety is 'identification', allowing them to enhance their sense of self and cope with stressors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The defense mechanism that involves taking on the qualities or values of someone else to avoid anxiety is called identification. This occurs when an individual assimilates an aspect, property, or attribute of another and is fully absorbed into the individual's personality. It's a form of influence which goes beyond mere imitation and is often observed when a person tries to increase their sense of worth by adopting certain traits or characteristics of someone they admire. This is especially common in youth and in situations where individuals compare themselves to others to avoid uncomfortable feelings about their own identities.