Single versus multiphoton multiple ionization of diatomic and triatomic molecules is discussed. The former experiments use synchrotron radiation, while the latter ones require pico- or femtosecond laser pulses focused to an intensity exceeding 1014 W/cm2. A method of improving covariance maps by decorrelating laser fluctuations is presented. Removal of false coincidences in triple coincidence experiments is extended to a varying excitation rate. An explanation of the multielectron dissociative ionization mechanism is sought in terms of bond softening, bond hardening (stabilisation), and ionization enhancement due to Stark-shift excitation. It is expected that this excitation is accompanied by emission of vacuum ultraviolet radiation that differs from high harmonic generation.