Crying Foul

Most are familiar with the story of the boy who cried wolf.  That little rascal got everyone's attention 3 times!  Talk about being charismatic, wow, this kid had the skills.  He was lying his head off but, there was a perceived need and his "crying" worked.  Eventually though, the need was no longer perceived only but, rather a legitimate desperate cry for help.  The lad (at least in some versions) loses his life because of his lying lips.
Switching gears now...my husband enjoys playing "pick up" games of basketball.  It is my understanding that in such games people get to call their own fouls.  This I feel is totally up to the one being fouled to care enough about the offence that they speak up. 
In life like that little rascally boy we sometimes for sport or spite call out a need that isn't necessarily warranted.  Yet, as in the game sometimes legitimate "hurt" occurs.  The crisis point comes when we feel we have been fouled.  What should we express? What should be suppressed?  This is what I ponder.  And further when a "foul" is reported what should my response be? 
None of us get to say how deeply a hurt goes in another's life. Even if I "foul" someone and do not think their "cry" is legit am I not obligated to listen and respond to the need? 
These thoughts are extra scrambled this morning.  I would love to entertain any thoughts or questions from you dear ones. 
Have an extra good day!