Introduction: Parental disciplinary practices strongly influence child development, with violent methods linked to harmful outcomes. Children with special needs are particularly vulnerable due to child-related, parental, and family-level risks. Early recognition and timely interventions are essential to reduce long-term effects. Objective: This study aims to describe the prevalence of violent and non-violent disciplinary practices among parents of children with special needs and to identify factors associated with violent discipline. It also examines disciplinary patterns among children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out at a multidisciplinary clinic in the Gampaha District, Sri Lanka, from 15 March to 15 May 2024. Parents of children aged 2–18 years with special needs were recruited. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire and analysed using SPSS version 22. Results: Of 455 eligible parents, 445 responded (97 .8%). Non-violent discipline was reported by 82.5%. Psychological aggression, physical abuse, and corporal punishment were reported at 69.9%, 12.8%, and 65.8%. Violent discipline was significantly associated with child age, gender, and physical, cognitive, or sensory impairments, as well as parental age, low income, intimate partner violence, and substance abuse (p < 0.05). No association was found with speech difficulties or parental employment. Among ASD and ADHD groups, psychological aggression, physical abuse, and corporal punishment were also frequently reported. Conclusion: Violent disciplinary practices were common among parents of children with special needs, highlighting the need for strengthened family support and promotion of safer disciplinary approaches.